The Three Keys To Happiness

The Three Keys To Happiness

Life has a way of taking unexpected turns – of throwing surprises at us when
we least expect them. In many ways, life does bring one down. When unplanned
and unexpected events come into our lives, they leave us in a state of pain,
grief, doubt, fear and depression.

One feels the need for a strong and stable foundation that one can depend on
when life’s river takes unexpected turns. A simple formula is needed that
can keep us grounded on the path and pointed in the right direction – that
of flow, let go, forgiveness and happiness.
Here is just such a simple solution, presented in the form of three keys,
that when remembered and practiced, keep us going in the right direction and
while we walk the path, they also are the catalysts in bringing happiness.
Key 1 – Keep Your Heart Free From Hatred
When people, events and circumstances go against our wishes, desires or
expectations, they create reactions of anger and frustration within us.
These reactions are natural and must not be denied or ignored – rather their
underlying reason must be seen and overcome – that of our pre-decided ideas
and expectations being thwarted.
These emotions occur as a natural progression of painful events and are fine
as long as they are felt and released. The problem lies when we cannot let
go of the feelings and they tend to seep into our hearts where they fester
till treated. If such is the case, these negative feelings tend to influence
our way of thought, and necessarily, of action and become an integral part
of our outlook towards life itself. Then everything that originates within
us carries the subtle flavour of these very negative feelings.
The first secret of happiness says that no matter what emotions we feel
temporarily, our hearts must remain free of hate.
Key 2 – Keep Your Mind Free From Worry
We worry when our thoughts travel either to the future, or linger in the
past. Worry is a phenomenon which depletes energy and divides attention -
leaving us incapable of giving our best to the moment before us.
The only way to give a 100% of yourself to the task at hand is to be totally
present in the present moment without thinking of what’s gone by or what is
still to come – both cases where we have no say or control anyway.
Performing the action totally and to the best of one’s ability brings back a
positive result based on the law of karma – “As you sow, so shall you reap”
- a result which would not be possible had we divided our inner being with
worry.
The second secret of happiness is to always perform actions based on careful
thought and planning, but without worry.
Key 3 – Give A Lot, Expect A Little
It is crucial for our happiness to come to the realisation early in life
that it is our own expectations and pre-conceived ideas and hopes, which
when frustrated, cause most of our pain and agony.
Once this understanding has stabilised within us, we begin to live for the
moment, and within ourselves instead of seeking outward or external
reinforces for our self-esteem or happiness.
It is not enough for us to be passive spectators of our own life, we must
also be willing to give and share freely of our best qualities without
waiting for a similar return.
It is both wise and practical to remember the advice of numerous spiritual
masters that “It is in the giving that we receive.” The free giving of your
own self without strings attached bring both peace and contentment in the
long run.
The third secret of happiness is to give a lot and expect very little.