HOW TO ATTAIN LASTING JOY IN LIFE

WE OFTEN reflect on how to attain lasting joy in our lives. People all around us are also trying to find answers to this question. Many try to look for happiness through material objects: by acquiring a better house, a newer car, designer clothing, or losing weight to become physically more attractive. These are often viewed as a means for happiness. But more and more people are realising that these answers do not bring about lasting joy in life, and that the happiness resulting from such activities is temporary.

- FLORA TECKIE

“Happiness” according the Baha'i Writings “consists of two kinds; physical and spiritual. The physical happiness is limited; its utmost duration is one day, one month, one year. ... Spiritual happiness is eternal and unfathomable. This kind of happiness appeareth in one's soul with the love of God and suffereth one to attain to the virtues and perfections of the world of humanity".

This is not to say that material needs and means are not important. Obviously, we have legitimate physical needs that need to be catered for, such as food, shelter, and protection from threatening forces. But these should not become the main purpose of our lives.

The reason for physical solutions not resulting in lasting happiness is because they fail to fulfil the basic purpose of our existence. The purpose of our lives is not just to acquire material objects, to be entertained, or to satisfy our physical desires.