If there is one illusion that is most commonly sought after, it is a life full of happiness. No one can be permanently happy. This goes against the very laws of nature. A better word to replace it is contentment. Being content in your life situation is much more feasible than always being happy. Now, before the cynics throw the first stone let me explain. All emotions are fleeting. Sadness, happiness, anger, they only arise due to your perception of an external events. Yet, there is a common trend in our culture for people to chase after the dream of happiness. The satisfaction, however, will only be a fleeting moment, leaving you wanting more and feeling empty. To be content, however, is to search deep within and accept who you are and where you are for what it is.

Right now I can hear a million voices saying "No, I will not accept my present situation for what it is! If I do that I will be stuck here forever." Sadly, this very voice is the perpetuator of the situation. It's like being stuck in the middle of the water screaming and kicking because you cannot swim properly. To accept your life and your situation is simply to acknowledge where and who you are and not fight it. Also, by accepting this you give space to contemplate and create a new path. Strangely, when we do this, something far more potent than happiness arises. This new sensation may be considered joy, and its presence can exist regardless of the outside world.