One of the most important factors in happiness is the possession of a robust constitution. It is true that instances may be quoted of men who have suffered from diseases that have been the cause of much physical pain, and yet at the same time have managed to present a cheerful front to their fellows.
Such people are heroic in their nature and obtain a certain measure of happiness in spite of their circumstances.
Courage and resolution of this kind are not given to all. Health is in itself a cause of happiness. Pleasure is obtained from the mere possession of strong limbs and sound digestion, and no one who aims at a life of contentment will treat his body unfairly. It will be his constant care.
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He will give it the exercise and training that it, needs, keep it clean, and rigidly refrain from the vices and excesses that undermine its powers or bring in their train loathsome diseases.
A healthy and well-trained body should be guided by a healthy and well-trained mind. It is not pleasant to feel that our education is defective, and that we are at a disadvantage compared with the average man with whom we come into contact. Moreover, it is only through education that we can enjoy the writings of the great authors.
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Those who are deprived of the pleasures and consolations of literature, have missed one of the great sources of happiness. Knowledge and a trained mind are also essential for success in professional or commercial life.
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It is not necessary to be wealthy to be happy; but it is desirable that peculiarly we should be comfortably situated, and not condemned to anxiety as to the source of tomorrow’s food or tortured by the thought that if we, the breadwinners, fail, there will be no provision for our families.
Therefore, in the securing of happiness, success in our work is a great factor, as it will bring with it not only joy which comes from work well done and duly performed, but also a relief from pecuniary troubles and the respect of others.
Another source of happiness is congenial work. The work of most men occupies a very appreciable portion of their day. It begins in body hood and continues to old age. It is of necessity continually present in their thoughts, and if it is irksome and distasteful, it will not contribute to the joy of existence.
The greatest care should be taken, in the choice of an occupation, to avoid such pursuits as cannot be followed without distaste, or such as can hold out for us no prospects of success.
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There are many other external things which make for happiness, such as position, friendship and love; but perhaps the most real source of happiness lies in ourselves, in a clear conscience, and in the cultivation of a cheerful disposition which refuses to repine when misfortunes threaten.