beliefsandhappylife

“I hope they find what they are looking for.” An often stated phrase for those in need of something. As an expression, it is a message of hope for the individual(s) who are in need of something important. In some situations, I wonder if it would be more appropriate to say “I hope you know what you are really looking for.”

Out of a discussion my wife and I had about the phrase: I hope they find what they are looking for, I began thinking about this phrase. To me, it seems like this phrase is mostly obsolete in our day since almost anyone can get access to anything in our digital, information age. This includes good things and bad things. (I do recognize that all things are not accessible to everyone. For example, it is a shame and problem that many good things (medicine, food, shelter, love) are not accessible to everyone across the world.) Likewise, it is a problem that many bad things are so easily accessible at an increasing rate (divorce, pornography, drugs, hate).

We often hear people abandoning their principles in search of an “easier life.” This easier life is intended to ratify decisions that often go against an individuals core beliefs. Supposedly providing a happiness not currently present or obtainable. If sought after, it will more than likely be found. With hundreds of religions and factions of belief on any given topic, individuals looking for appeasement are bound to find something that suites them for any given moment in time. To me, this search seems contradictory to truth and life in general.

God created us for a “wise and glorious purpose.” A large part of that purpose was so that we may have joy. (I define joy as a true and lasting happiness that is uplifting, positive, and radiant. Happiness is good, but is more of a temporary pleasure that comes and goes.) There is one truth, one set of rules by which we can obtain joy. To find joy, we need to seek all of these core truths. Consuming only portions of the pie will bring appeasement and ratification to those who seek it, but cannot bring lasting joy.

So, rather than hurriedly beginning our search, I believe we need to spend the effort upfront to truly understanding what it is we are looking for. Then, and only then, we will be fully rewarded with a joy beyond measure.