Three Faces of Happiness

Throughout my life, I have experienced three distinct types of happiness.

Satellite Happiness

I refer to it as Satellite Happiness because it revolves around a person or a group of people, much like a satellite orbits a planet. This type of happiness is dependent on others for its existence. You attach your idea of happiness to specific individuals who directly or indirectly influence your emotions and state of mind. Inevitably, you generate certain expectations from these people, and the fulfillment or lack thereof determines your happiness. Due to this dependency, there will be happy days when your expectations are met and sorrowful days when they are not. This type of happiness is neither constant nor predictably variable; it is inherently unstable and fluctuates like a rollercoaster. It is typically observed in close and trusted relationships such as family members, spouses, and partners where a great deal of trust and expectations are involved. However, these relationships can also cause immense grief and hurt because your happiness is tied to them.

Sprout Happiness

“As you sow, so shall you reap.” If you want a mango tree, sow a mango seed. If you want an apple tree, sow an apple seed. If you want happiness, sow the seed of happiness. How do you do that? Find out what makes you happy. What do you love to do? Is it an activity, a hobby, or a passion? Follow it. Nurture it. Cultivate it. As these grow and take shape, you will find yourself surrounded by what you love and what makes you happy. One consistent observation I have had is that an act of kindness brings the ultimate happiness, probably because the inherent nature of humans is fundamentally good. In a pure environment where humans have no reason to do evil, they would, by default, do good. Many who achieve great wealth and power often turn to charity or social work, perhaps because it gives noble meaning to their lives. I have personally felt this through my own charity and social work. As Buddha said, “Happiness comes from within,” and an act of kindness does just that.

Absolute Happiness

This is synonymous with bliss. This type of happiness is unfazed by any external entity. It is existentially absolute. Unlike Sprout Happiness, you don’t create it; you attain it. This is a result of complete or partial spiritual awakening. Sometimes, a state of depression can act as a catalyst, awakening you to the realities, harsh truths, and fallacies of life, as it did for me. It helps filter out the noise and provides clarity on what is truly important.