Before we discuss if we have a “right to be happy” or “how can we be happy,” we must first decide what we mean by ‘happiness.’
The word “happiness,” today, is used too ubiquitously to really mean much. There is a happy life, a happy moment, a happy accident. In etymological terms, the word’s origin is actually more closely related to “happen-stance” or “haphazard” where the root “hap” has to do with something being accidental or as a matter of fortune, rather than a result of purposeful action. In most European languages, happy meant lucky. Further, happiness’ connotation, its common usage rather than its definitive definition, has evolved from one of generality over a lifetime to one of one’s current state of being. Saying, “I am happy,” used to mean that your life was going well. Now it means, “This cake in my mouth is really something.” So, what was once a description of goals, direction and prudence, is now a full-mouthed reply to a bit of frosting.
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A little history behind the “Pursuit of Happiness”: The word ‘Happiness’ in Pursuit of Happiness came from Jefferson’s understanding of English Philosophy, specifically Locke and Hutcheson, and the notion of people (in a nation) having a measurable happiness engendered by good governance and in leading virtuous lives.This has its roots in Greek Philosophy.
The Greeks ask, “how ought one to live.” The full question is really, “How ought one to live to achieve a good life.” In order to know our direction in life, we must first understand our goal, so the Greeks spend a lot of time trying to define “what is a good life.”
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Amazing story about “Marty” Thomas. LOved it. Both Dylan and Beau listened to you speak as it just happened yesterday. Loved it. More please more i say!!
Very touching, John. I think I’ll start putting together a regular bedtime series. This also made me realize that I need to label some pieces as “explicit” in case there’s any kids who might, for example, be interested in the Muppet piece.