On human happiness...

"Now and then it's good to pause in our pursuit of happiness and just be happy", so said Guillaume Apollinaire, the foremost French poet of the early 20th century. The quest for happiness has been the single purpose of human existence. And often in vain.

In a world of strife, we have ensured that happiness is a distant dream for many; and survival more important than happiness.

When does a human being achieve happiness and how can it be measured? Is 'fun' as perceived today a quick pill for happiness? Or do we program ourselves to remain unhappy?

The Master claimed that a major reason for unhappiness in the world is the secret pleasure people take in being miserable.
He told of a friend who said to his wife, "Why don't you get away and have a good time, darling?"
"Now, dear, you know perfectly well that I never enjoy a good time!"
(Anthony de Mello, S.J.)