Parenthood is an expedition, marked not by the miles traveled but by the moments that astound us. Between the sacrifices and the struggles, moments of happiness steals the light. Living with little ones in this beautiful, chaotic life, often times we think, “What is True Happiness and Contentment?” Let us try to understand this simple yet profound question in this blog post.

What is True Happiness?

Many philosophers and poets have endeavored to answer this question. The great philosopher Aristotle once stated, “Happiness depends upon ourselves.” For a man, happiness is finding a true friend in his life partner. A child may find happiness in licking his favorite ice-cream.

Happiness cannot be depended on someone else. It should come from within. If it is the opposite, then a lack of contentment takes place. No individual is perfect, so how can he strive to make you happy. He may give you gifts, shower with love, but those are fleeting moments of happiness. Hence, true happiness is to feel content with yourself. In addition, contentment is the biggest treasure one can find.

What is True Happiness: In the Realm of Parenthood?

In regards to the subject of parenting, holding the bundle of joy the innocent baby, is complete happiness. It isn’t in a perfect, Pinterest-worthy nursery, or the subtle act of placing vegetables into meals for healthy eating. However, it is in the tickle fights, reading bedtime stories or watching a child sleep.

Ask any parent about their journey, and be ready to hear tales of epic adventures. There are highs, such as the first time your baby says “mama” or “dada,” and lows, such as your child getting sick. Of course, those very experiences make up the rich tapestry of family life.

Indeed, parenthood is not a solo sport; it’s played in teams. Whether it’s a partner, family, or friends, sharing with your loved ones amplifies the happiness and halves the sorrow. Hence, chaos can turn into shared laughter, collective wisdom and source of happiness.

Embracing Contentment in the Chaos

At the core of parenthood. there is an unconditional love for your child. This love is the foundation of true happiness and contentment, providing strength and joy even on the hardest days. Through all of the chaos of parenting, moments of peace might seem elusive as a quiet bathroom break.

However, it’s what makes every sacrifice worth it and every moment precious. Hence, when you find yourself amidst chaos, your child shouting for no reason, house in total mess- take a deep breath. Just for a second, think of not holding your child and will burst into tears. Many couples out there are yearning to hear those magical words “mama”. Therefore, in that very moment, you shall forget all the blunders and embrace your children.

Role of Gratitude

Gratitude is the lens through which the true beauty of parenthood can be appreciated. It’s easy to lose sight when you’re caught in the craziness of the daily grind. There are endless to-do lists and societal pressures pushing us to be “perfect” parents. Nevertheless, when we stop to reflect on the blessings in our lives, the perspective shifts dramatically.

If not a swelling heart filled with thankfulness for such beautiful chaos of growing tiny humans then what is true happiness? As we count our blessings, the hard parts somehow lighten up and the good becomes greater.  Indeed, be content with what you have, as not all are blessed with the same bounties.

Oprah Winfrey famously said,

“Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.”

Conclusion

What is True Happiness and Contentment? In the glow of parenthood, there are diverse answers and endless feelings. Certainly, it’s a hodgepodge of love, laughter, tears, and triumphs. But I say, to all those parents out there, know that in between the sleepless nights and the endless worry, you’re not alone. Even though the nights can be long, the years are short, and soon enough they will grow.

Hence, in my opinion, being a parent is true happiness. There is no feeling better than seeing the smile on your child’s face and hugging those tiny people.  Remember, happiness is not just a destination; it’s the beautiful, messy, and utterly joyful journey we’re on with our children.