Happiness is not an elusive thing.  It exists everywhere, right now.  Unlimited happiness and joy can be accessed at anytime, no matter what the circumstances, by simply making the decision to chose to be happy.  So, if it’s so easy why doesn’t everyone do it? 

We fear death.  Even those of us who are religious and believe that the afterlife is our reward fear death.  This fear separates us from each other and from the experience of true happiness.  Fear of death brings with it a multitude of “sins”.  Greed, lust, envy, gluttony are the ego’s way of making us feel safe and important in the great uncertainty that is life.  Feeding the ego creates a sense of separation for the individual.  You feel that you must compete against others who will show you no compassion.  When everyone feels this way, everyone behaves accordingly.  

Each day, the opportunity to chose happiness is available to us by simply saying yes to what is. Resistance truly is futile.  You will die one day.  You will have suffering and loss in your life.  You will not always have success, fame, fortune, great clothes, great hair, a great car.  But you will have food, sunshine, water, air, and opportunity. 

Have you ever ridden a roller-coaster?  When you’re nearing the top of that first hill and the cars climb slowly over the top and you get that first glimpse of the track falling away below you, you have two choices.  You can resist, press your feet into the floor, push your hands into the bar, turn your head back into the seat and fight the feeling all the way down.  Alternatively, you can put your arms up in the air and let go. Always way more fun.  It’s the same with life.  Resistance brings despair.  Acceptance brings joy and fun and happiness. 

Everyone on earth is here to enjoy the experience of having a body, walking around, being creative, working, loving, eating, praying.  Letting go of fear allows you to recognize yourself in others, to open your heart, to create compassion and to live a full and happy life.  You can be free of the negative emotions such as envy and hatred by accepting what is and choosing to enjoy it now.  

So, what are you waiting for? Put your arms up and let go!