Rediscovering Happiness through the Eyes of Resilient Children

Happiness is subjective, its value often influenced by the unique perspectives of those who experience it. A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of spending time with children whose lives are touched by HIV, either through their own affliction or the struggles of their parents. They were residents of an orphanage that offered them unwavering support. In my brief encounter with these youngsters, I unearthed invaluable lessons about the true essence of happiness.

Enjoy the Small Pleasures of this Big Life…

A seemingly trivial pack of color crayons and a clean, blank sheet of paper may not hold great significance for most of us. We might wonder, "What's the big deal?" However, for these less privileged children, it was a BIG deal! Witnessing their radiant smiles as they received these simple gifts was a reminder of how much we take for granted. It dawned on me that the very things we overlook mean the world to someone else.

Like these children, I hope to embrace gratitude, live in the moment and find happiness in life's smaller, often overlooked joys.

… but don't stop Dreaming for a Better Brighter Tomorrow.

In Hindi, there's a saying, "Ummeed pe duniya kaayam hai," which translates to, "The world is built on Hope." These resilient children had an infectious twinkle in their eyes as they timidly shared their dreams of what they wished their future to look like. One aspired to become a doctor, another to be an athlete, and yet another harbored ambitions of joining the Indian Civil Services. Despite the stark contrasts in their lives, they dared to dream and clung to hope.

I've often heard that one of the many pre-requisites to success is alignment of stars, but these children reminded me that dreams are the stars themselves. I encouraged them to aim for these stars, who knows, they might just reach them! The key lies in the unwavering, dedicated efforts that inch them closer to their dreams, and maybe the alignment of stars.

Reflecting on my own journey, I can't help but feel content and gratitude for how my life has unfolded. No life is perfect, and mine was no exception. It began as that of a typical lower-middle-class child, where my father's earnings were just enough for us to have a comfortable life, until we lost him. My mother worked tirelessly, laying the foundation for a life my siblings and I could only dream of back then.

Amidst the mundane routines of our lives, we often forget to express gratitude for the privileges we enjoy. My most significant takeaway from these interactions with these resilient children is a renewed understanding of happiness.

It's about cherishing every moment and reevaluating how I define my own version of happiness.

In their hope, resilience, and simple joys, these children showed me that happiness can be found in the most unexpected places. It is a choice, a perspective, and a journey we can all embark on, no matter the circumstances.

On this day of #Dassehra, I pray that Lord Ram fills their lives with happiness and grants them their dreams of a bright future.