The Pursuit of Joy: Embracing the Present in a Full Life

Introduction

Why do people pursue happiness and never arrive? The answer often lies in perceiving happiness as the end goal rather than an inherent part of the journey. Pursuing joy involves understanding that moments of happiness are interspersed throughout our lives, and that it is a choice we make rather than something we find through external circumstances. Life, with its ebbs and flows, offers us a kaleidoscope of emotions and experiences. As the Quran beautifully states, 'This life of the present is nothing but temporary convenience: It is the Hereafter that is the Home that will last.'

Understanding Happiness and Joy

Substituting 'we' with 'I' in this journey, we often find that true happiness is closely linked to the joy we feel within ourselves. Unlike happiness, which is heavily dependent on external circumstances, joy comes from within. It is a manifestation of the spirit of God living within a person. According to Galatians 5:22-23, joy is one of the fruit of the Spirit. This suggests that joy is a result of a deep, inner peace that comes from aligning oneself with the will of the Creator.

Happiness is often sought in the 'hap' or circumstances surrounding us, but as we discovered, it is the choice we make to see the good in these circumstances that truly defines our state of being. When we expect happiness to be contingent on external factors, we naturally set ourselves up for disappointment. A more sustainable path is to focus on cultivating joy, which can be experienced regardless of the current circumstances. This shifts the focus from what is lacking to the inherent goodness and value within us.

Striving and Aspirations

Everyone has an aspiration to be the best they can be. This striving is a natural and noble part of human nature. However, the challenge lies in recognizing our limits and accepting that perfection is not attainable. After reaching our limits, the world can sometimes seem less abundant, and this can lead to a sense of dissatisfaction. It’s important to reflect on when you were truly joyful and recall the times you felt the most fulfilled. Often, it was during the pursuit of your highest aspirations, not when you achieved them.

When we encounter limitations, our sense of happiness may diminish. It is during these times that we must shift our focus from external achievements to internal joy. Instead of striving for something that is unattainable, it may be time to step back and reevaluate your life's priorities. Perhaps it’s time to 'retire' from the job that no longer fulfills you and focus on life's other pleasures. Rest, reflect, and rediscover the things that bring genuine joy and contentment to your life.

Conclusion

The pursuit of joy is a lifelong journey, not a destination. By understanding that happiness is a choice we make and by striving to find joy within, we can truly embrace the fullness of life. Remember, true fulfillment comes from aligning your actions and thoughts with the spirit of God and finding peace in His presence.

Reflect on these ideas, and let them guide you towards a more joyful and fulfilling life. Life is a beautiful tapestry of experiences, and by choosing to see the positive through the lens of joy, you can navigate through the challenges with grace and contentment.