We humans, having the capacity to make plans and set goals, strive to be happy. While we are carefree as children, we come to realize that our happiness is dependent upon the degree of control that we have over the course of our lives. Conversely, unhappiness often results from the sense that we have lost control, whether in our relationships, our career, our health or in some other aspect of our life.
Some choose to live with unhappiness, convinced that their life is governed by a divine force and that suffering is the key to their eternal reward. At the other extreme are the hedonists, willing to forgo personal responsibilities in pursuit of their own gratification. Fortunately, the great majority of humans strive to balance their own happiness with the obligations that they feel toward their families, their friends and their fellow citizens. Indeed, unless based on this balanced approach to life, human society could not endure.
But, as individuals, we must learn to recognize when the loss of personal control is eroding our mental and physical health. Responsible choices can be made to restore that control, though a willingness to face some degree of risk is often essential. Martyrdom serves no one and, since we only have one life to live, an openness to change will help to ensure that it is a happy one.
