I had often debated with myself the value of pursuing happiness, given its fleeting nature. I became a proponent of the pursuit of a contented life (Aristotelian ‘eudaimonia’), rather than one of constant expectation or of a fleeting nature. In other words, avoiding the extremes, pursuing work, responsibilities, charity, and moderation would lead to a life of contentedness. I still believe this to a degree, but I also accept that the moments I cherish most were fleeting, imperfect, and pure happiness.

For myself four moments stand out. Few scenes, if any, in my first act mean more to me than these:

1. When I was 4 and my father, on a moment’s notice, decided to skip work for a week and take the family to Disney World.This was pure unadulterated bliss for any child raised on Disney classics from Duck Tales to the Lion King.
2. When I was admitted to the university I had dreamed of attending since I was a child was a spectacular feeling. I would not define it as happiness, but just joyful shock. I shared the news with my parents who were as speechless with joy as I was. It was neither the reaction I wanted nor expected, but it was perfect.
3. When I became a ‘Big Sibling’ for a boy and a girl from a single parent home on welfare I was wary, uncomfortable, and skeptical. They showed me instantaneous affection at a time when I felt terribly jaded. It was refreshing to receive unrequited love from an innocent; in that moment of happiness I pledged to do the same for them.
4. Sharing a private day with the person I was formerly involved with was the fourth and most intriguing moment. In that powerful and indescribable moment, I had this person’s absolute adoration. The seconds were endless as we lost ourselves in each other’s arms but the hours disappeared into thin air. Without blink or regret, our eyes displayed the other’s reflection. The only thing that bothered me about this moment was the constant worry that it would end, or that our relationship would end (my worry likely contributed to its demise after all was said and done).

Those were my happiest moments in life. I suppose they are a touch cliche, but with good reason; it is the commonality of the human condition to want child-like wonder, parental accolades, a child’s innocence, and a lover’s adoration.

Curious though, throughout my childhood and youth I never knew that this was it. I always expected that the happiest moment of my life would be one with myself, alone, on stage in front of the world receiving the greatest honours and privileges available to be bestowed upon me. More than that,I simply expected the moment before it arrived.

In the end, reflecting on my own joyful moments, a few truths seem evident:

1. There is no singular definition of happiness;
2. Happiness in its best form is shared with others;
3. Happiness is and ought to be unexpected;
4. Happiness is fleeting.

The above truths lead me to conclude that one ought to appreciate those moments and live in them as they arrive. With this knowledge in hand, I fully well intend to, and I hope you do as well.

Yours,

O.K.