Be Of Good Cheer

Welcome to this week’s episode of the Contemplative Living Podcast, where we explore the idea of “Being Of Good Cheer.” As a bodhisattva, we aim to alleviate suffering and cultivate happiness for all living beings. This can be achieved by letting go of our desires and focusing on others. So, let us take comfort in knowing that tomorrow will bring a new day with new opportunities. Some may question whether pursuing happiness is truly what most people are after or if it is simply seeking stimulation and excitement. May you find peace and joy in your life, and may you wake up each morning with a cheerful “Good Morning.” Embrace the changes within yourself as you continue on your journey. Remember that when we strive for special experiences to make us happy, we often become trapped in our pursuit. True happiness comes not from making it our ultimate goal but from learning to appreciate the journey itself.

Happiness lies in shrinking the self – in giving up our wants.

In a world that constantly bombards us with messages of acquiring more, achieving success, and fulfilling our desires, this notion may seem counterintuitive. Yet, it is precisely by letting go of these incessant cravings that we find true contentment.

Shrinking the self does not imply diminishing one’s worth or suppressing individuality; rather, it suggests transcending the ego-driven desires that perpetuate an endless cycle of dissatisfaction.

In relinquishing our wants, we free ourselves from unnecessary burdens and cultivate gratitude for what already exists within and around us. We discover joy in simple pleasures: a warm embrace from a loved one, the sound of laughter echoing through a room filled with friends, or feeling the sun’s gentle caress on our skin.

Is it happiness most people are pursuing? Or is it stimulus and excitement?

The allure of instant gratification has become our compass, guiding us on a never-ending quest for the next thrill. We scroll through social media feeds filled with carefully curated images portraying others living their best lives—traveling to exotic destinations or attending glamorous events—and wonder why our own experiences seem lackluster in comparison. We convince ourselves that if we just had more excitement in our lives, then surely happiness would follow suit. Have we forgotten what true happiness really means?

But what if true contentment doesn’t lie solely in these bursts of adrenaline? What if it’s not about constantly seeking out novelty but rather finding meaning in the everyday moments? Perhaps there is beauty hidden within simplicity—the quiet solitude of reading a book by the fireplace or sharing heartfelt conversations with loved ones. It is in these moments that we discover genuine joy, when time seems to stand still and everything else fades away.

Happiness doesn’t come from making happiness the goal—it comes from being able to appreciate the journey.

We can be easy to get caught up in the pursuit of an elusive destination. We often believe that once we achieve certain goals or acquire certain possessions, then and only then will we finally be happy.

But what if true happiness lies not in reaching those milestones but rather in embracing every step along the way? What if it’s less about focusing on the end result and more about savoring each moment as it unfolds?

The truth is that life is unpredictable; it’s filled with ups and downs, joys and sorrows. And while it may seem counterintuitive, learning to find contentment amidst this chaos can lead us to a deeper sense of fulfillment. It means shifting our perspective from always striving for something better to recognizing and cherishing all that we already have.

Be of Good Cheer invites us to align ourselves with gratitude for everything life offers—both big and small. It encourages us to notice the beauty in everyday moments, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and find joy even when circumstances are far from perfect.

Watch this episode of Contemplative Living on Youtube.