PEACEFULNESS: A SIMPLE WAY OF LIVING

Peacefulness is not something distant or unattainable—it is a way of simple living, chosen voluntarily to bring more happiness and serenity into life.

Those who embrace this lifestyle often appear outwardly simple, but their inner life is rich and joyful.  They recognize two fundamental truths:

1.    There is no need to chase a consumer-driven lifestyle because true happiness comes from within.

2.    We must treat all people and living beings with fairness, as we share the priceless gifts of nature together.

1. Why is it unnecessary to chase material wealth to be happy?

Happiness does not come from possessing material goods but from inner peace.  This truth has been demonstrated in reality:

• In developed countries like the United States, despite rising income levels over generations, the percentage of people who feel happy remains unchanged at about one-third. Meanwhile, divorce rates have doubled, and teenage suicide rates have tripled.

When we pursue material wealth, we risk becoming enslaved by our possessions—homes, money, and other assets.  We will never feel satisfied because we will always desire more.  This insatiable craving leads to more suffering.

In contrast, happiness is not dependent on external circumstances; it is always present within us.  A notable example is Bhutan, a small nation nestled between India and China with a population of only 700,000.  Despite its modest per capita income, Bhutan boasts a high Gross National Happiness (GNH) index, illustrating that a simple lifestyle can lead to profound joy.

Choosing simplicity reduces unnecessary responsibilities and false material needs, allowing more time to nurture a rich spiritual life and greater peace of mind.

“Most people are as happy as they make up their minds to be.” — Abraham Lincoln

2. Why should we treat all people and living beings fairly?

Every being, including humans, has an innate desire for happiness. If you have the right to pursue happiness, then all other living beings have that same right.  What grounds could justify treating them differently?

In today’s globalized world, we are deeply interconnected.  Your happiness depends on the happiness of others.

Consider this: we enjoy many conveniences such as clean water, fuel, paper, air conditioning, mobile phones, and vehicles, but these do not come solely from our own efforts.  They are gifts from nature and the collective contributions of many people, directly or indirectly.

Rather than focusing solely on individual benefits, we should think on a global scale and recognize our responsibility to protect the environment and sustain the natural balance.  A mindset of altruism and generosity will lead to greater happiness, as true happiness is found in sharing.

“The world would be a better place if we offered others even a fraction of the compassion we reserve for ourselves.” — Anonymous

Conclusion:

A simple and voluntary way of living frees us from the burdens we have placed on ourselves, giving us more time to spend with loved ones, relax, and pursue what we truly enjoy.

This concept of happiness through simplicity is not new.  From ancient times, the Bible, Buddhist philosophy, and Taoist teachings have all emphasized that happiness is not determined by material possessions or external circumstances.  Instead, sharing and connection are the keys to true joy.

Choose simplicity as a way of life, and let peacefulness become a gift to yourself and those around you.