The Pursuit of Happiness: A Different Perspective

For those of you whose main goal in life is something other than happiness, what is your goal and why isn’t it happiness? In my case, happiness has never been a primary objective. Growing up, I never enjoyed life or being a human; it seemed to me that most adults were unhappy and stressed out. Even at the age of 5, I “hated” dolls — anything that looked human, but I loved stuffed animals and real animals.

My feelings of unease and dissatisfaction extend well into adulthood. I know few, if any, people who feel as unhappy and stressed as I do about the basic challenges of daily life. Perhaps I am the only one honest and blunt about it. Despite this, I am a very kind and sweet person who simply feels miserable being human. Too many thoughts, coupled with the need for constant comfort and work, create a life that is difficult and exhausting.

Challenges and Stressors of Daily Life

Being human means dealing with numerous stressors. We work and stress to find jobs that provide enough shelter and income. We deal with the logistics of schooling, housing, and personal growth. Animals, on the other hand, live in harmony with nature without the constant need to control or modify their environment. They survive and thrive without the need for endless buildings, jobs, or societal control.

Humans are expected to find a mate and build a comfortable living situation together. However, there are few options for those who are physically unattractive or those who struggle to find someone who loves them deeply. Reliance on roommates is difficult, and finding a long-term partner who values and supports you financially is even harder. Despite the abundance of options, many find that life is not as fulfilling as they hoped.

The Tragedy of the Human Condition

I look at animals and envy their peace and acceptance of life. Children, even as they grow, often cry and tantrum. However, they seem to have spurts of happiness in the midst of emotional turmoil. In essence, the human condition is marked by constant struggle and denial. While some find joy, many accept the?inevitability?of stress and unhappiness.

I, however, have no desire to be happy or to conform to societal expectations. My only goal is to provide better lives for animals and struggling human friends. I take care of pets and support a significant other who faces challenges. Even though I engage in human activities that I do not enjoy, I find fulfillment in knowing that I am providing comfort and joy to non-human creatures.

Laughter and Acceptance

To be honest, I laugh a lot more than most people. Friends who know I am deeply unsatisfied often think I am “crazy” for embracing my dissatisfaction and not planning to change it. The answer is simple: it just is. I have no desire to be the human creature I am, and I do not expect to feel “happy” or pretend to be content.

In some strange way, I feel happier because I am accepting the reality of life. I believe that some people find happiness in life’s meaninglessness and can accept it. Perhaps this makes me happier than those who struggle to find meaning and pretend to be content.

The Human Condition: A Contradiction?

Little children and adults alike experience emotional turmoil. Babies and children cry and become upset frequently. It is clear to me that this is the human condition. Adults deny their unhappiness, making it an unacceptable reality to admit that life is utterly miserable. Humans are naturally unhappy and dissatisfied, but they are obsessed with seeking happiness and convincing themselves and others that they are.

Is the pursuit of happiness a contradiction or a necessary aspect of the human experience? While many strive for happiness, some find it in the acceptance and freedom to embrace life as it is. Perhaps a more honest and accepting approach to life can bring a greater sense of peace and fulfillment.