What did Thomas Jefferson have in mind when he considered essential to add “the right to the pursuit of happiness” in the Declaration of Independence? Life and liberty were, of course, vital rights that the forefathers of this country had to fight for when the colonies weren’t allowed the sovereignty to decide their own destiny when the British army was abusing the colonists.
But why the pursuit of happiness? I’d like to understand the intention behind the words. I believe that it was not about individuality and not about possessions. Their fight was for freedom and I am inclined to agree with those who think that they were referring to that happiness that can only be achieved when you work for freedom and for the public good.
The pursuit of happiness is since the declaration of independence a goal linked to the American way of life. People have come to pursue happiness, or what they believe happiness is, through the most extraordinary ways. Money and fame have become the avenues that supposedly take you to Heaven on Earth. But it doesn’t take long for people to realize that money can’t buy happiness. People achieve riches and fame and they party, drink alcohol, consume drugs, have sex, all in pursuit of happiness. Often times people get a quick peek at or a brief sensation of elation that might feel to them as heaven. But, because it doesn’t last long, they go for more and more of it until it risks becoming obsessive and destructive behavior. Might explain why people are frequently unsatisfied. Longing, always longing.
A divorce between the soul and the ego might be the big culprit of people’s lack of happiness. The soul is capable of experiencing the utmost joy and peace. The ego is greedy and lonely and afraid. It can seek experiences that can elevate the body to the heights of elation or manic moods but cannot achieve joy on its own. Joy is a less intense experience, but it lasts longer.
The pursuit of happiness has been misunderstood, I think. It’s not about the individual, but about the collective wellbeing; it’s not about possessions but about achievements. It’s more about doing the right thing than a lot of things!
COMPARE TO BUDDHISM… Accept suffering is part of life.
