The Pursuit of Happiness

Life is full of pain, disappointment, struggles, adversity. Each day, some of us set out with only the best intentions, or expectations. What happens when something doesn’t go your way?

Viktor Frankl, a survivor of Auschwitz (I just read his book, “A Man’s Search for Meaning”) witnessed first hand how men can either succumb to the influences of our environment, or maintain their sense of responsibility. He lived with people who, despite the unimaginable tortures they faced daily, were able to see the bright side of life. How could one possibly find a sense of peace experiencing the horrors of a concentration camp?

So go with me on this.

I found myself struggling at first and wondered the same thing. I am currently homeless. I don’t have a bedroom to relax in. I don’t have a TV to turn on while I cozy up on the couch. I don’t have a pantry or a refrigerator with snacks and drinks to grab at my convenience. Every day I have to find ways to pass the time outside, on the street.

Thankfully I found a job, which helps pass a lot of time. I get paid about what I made 12 years ago, but at least I have money. I do have a bed, and a place to store my things. Is that all I have?

Dr. Frankl wrote about liberty, and that I will always have a certain freedom - a freedom to control my attitude. Should I put up walls and become a rude person, being faced with mental illness and rude people on the street? Should I do whatever it takes to look out just for me?

I found peace and serenity from my alcohol addiction by helping others. Suddenly I was able to cope with life on a daily basis, without numbing myself every day to escape. Why would I change that outlook on life just because my circumstances have changed? Every day, I am grateful to be alive. I am grateful to be sober. I am grateful to have a job. I am grateful to have a place to sleep at night that isn’t outside.

What are you grateful for? Instead of searching for a reason to be happy, search instead for a meaning to your life. Happiness is a by product of gratitude.

An off topic reminder - put down your phone. Addiction comes in many forms. Addiction is cunning, baffling, and extremely powerful.