What does it mean to be happy, my loves? And, more importantly, can our own manifestation of happiness impact that of another?
Through the Second Mindfulness Training, we are reminded that our own happiness is never ours alone. That it is, at times, nearly indistinguishable from the heart energy of another.
We are encouraged to look deeply to see that happiness and suffering are common to all; and that our truest happiness may be attained through compassion and understanding.
In looking deeply, we see that another’s actions may share its roots with something much bigger still. That this outward expression may be manifested from a space of uncertainty, loss or fear.
I remember once during a recent hospitalization, I was so overwhelmed by the physicality of my own pain that I uncustomarily withdrew; retreating to the boundaries of uncertainty and fear.
Until an elderly woman sat beside me to say, “I’m here for you.” And, just as an old friend she reached out to hold my hand.
She sat with me for hours, spinning takes and sharing laughs. Until all the tests were concluded, and my fear had finally been put to rest.
“It’s easy to feel overwhelmed,” she smiled “when we feel that we are alone.”
I’ll never forget her kindness on that day; the warmth of her smile shall be always with me. It wasn’t until later that I learned more of her story. “Can you believe she just lost her husband of 49 years,” the nurse shared. “She comes here each day to make sure no one is ever alone.”
You see, in spite of her own insurmountable pain – she knew that healing could be effected through her connection with others. And so, this beautiful soul rode the bus 27 miles each day — simply for the joy and benefit of being present for another.
Why? Because she knew what others might so easily miss. That is to say, in opening our awareness to the suffering of others we may finally begin to move past our pain.
In this way, we may discover our own inner peace; and, through this peace we find our truest source of happiness.
Namaste, my loves ~ ❤️
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