Happiness has become a virtue that must be imbibed rather than a task to be achieved. Many people have sought happiness in material and immaterial things, tangible and intangible, but eventually, those things are only able to give happiness in their temporary form. I would rather say that happiness, to a large extent, radiates from within to the outside and is more lasting than that which comes from without, subject to factors that may not be within the control of the individual.
I have over the years, in my forgivable ignorance, sought happiness in many laudable things such as careers, jobs, contracts, wins, profits, friends, events, etc. that have truly contributed to or offered solace to me, but none has been sufficient to give me lasting happiness beyond that of the temporary. Luxuries such as cars and houses have no doubt been appealing, and I dare to say that many of humanity's struggles revolve around living a life of comfort.
Happiness, to me, is hinged on two major factors: health and wealth. The desire of every sick person is to recover and be in the best of health, as he probably was. Access to quality health in Nigeria has significantly become a privilege when there is a need for it, and thus, being sick is costly. I have shared an experience where I spent four hours at a tertiary health facility before my dad was attended to only after an intervention from a consultant, despite me being in medical school. "Health is wealth" has been a popular saying that reflects the need to be in good health for an individual to be maximal while creating wealth and could also imply the abundance of health that wealth cannot buy. I have seen the wealthy lose their health despite the abundance of resources.
Wealth, on the other hand, is an answer to many things and, to an extent, good health for the majority. Wealth opens many doors for people and, in some respects, is related to power. I have wished to have many things, but as the financial resources are limited, my wants and desires have been put in check. If money were not an issue, I would have dreams for myself and for people around me. Personally, I want to live in a beautifully built and spacious apartment with exquisite home decorations. I would love to have a fleet of cars, both simple and executive. This wealth would definitely be used to set up my family members as well, so that none of us are lagging behind.
I have always had the mind to build a well-furnished geriatric home where the elderly can be nursed without the thought of payment. Having such a philanthropic gesture to the vulnerable and less privileged would satiate my mind beyond temporary bliss, as my mind would be at peace for having helped those who could not afford those necessities. Being able to bring succor and happiness to this set of people would definitely bring me happiness.
I believe someday soon my dream will become a reality, and the world, beginning with my immediate environment, will be a better place.
Thank you for reading. I would love to have your comments and contributions.
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