Pope Francis's Happier Happiness
I led a study group on Taking Happiness Seriously some years ago. There are more books, podcasts and blogs now on Happiness than ever before. What has become clear is that Happiness is not simply an elusive emotion that some lucky people have and others do not. Happiness is a life orientation that can be chosen. It can be cultivated by consciously disciplining ourselves to do the things that lift our mood and improve our life. As we grow in psycho-spiritual maturity we are faced with the challenge of confronting ourselves. We are given the opportunity to choose how we will respond to life's many challenges.
Two Reasons Why I Really Like Pope Francis's Tips
- How great is it that a Christian leader is emphasizing Happiness Practices as something we can and should cultivate for ourselves! Happiness is a legitimate spiritual goal.
- Pope Francis's list emphasizes that our happiness is NOT just a personal, isolated experience. It does not rest on chasing material achievements. True happiness requires interconnectedness, mutual respect and taking responsibility for ourselves and the well-being of our communities and planet.