The secret to happiness is wanting what you got rather than getting what you (think you) want. This may not be as easy as it sounds, but it’s simple enough once you find the balance point between effort and acceptance, what could be and what is. I try to apply the natural great perfection’s Dzogchen pithy instruction “At ease.” In that spirit of welcome and appreciation, openness and interest, everything is possible and nothing seems too difficult.

1. “At ease.”
The secret to happiness is
wanting what you got rather
than getting what you (think
you) want. This may not be as
easy as it sounds, but it’s simple
enough once you find the
balance point between effort
and acceptance, what could be
and what is. I try to apply the
natural great perfection’s
Dzogchen pithy instruction “At
ease.” In that spirit of welcome
and appreciation, openness and
interest, everything is possible
and nothing seems too difficult.
“At ease.”– Posted By Lama
Surya Das

2. Lama Surya Das
The happiness movement today has many
aspects, and I’m all for it, although
sometimes it does seem a bit overly
simplistic. I believe it’s time to reflect upon
what we really want and need, collectively
as well as individually, before setting into
motion powerful forces intent upon
achieving those aims and goals. We don’t
want to reach the top of the ladder after a
long climb, to find it’s not leaning on the
right wall!
Happiness as we usually understand it is
just the tip of the iceberg of satisfaction
and fulfillment, well being, and deepening
contentment leading to the deepest variety
of nirvanic peace and heavenly delight.
This is not just a matter of an experience
but of an entire life, a sacred journey.
Contentment is the ultimate form of
wealth, as the Buddhist philosopher of old
named Nagarjuna– Charioteer of the
Naga* Kings– says.

3. Last weekend I performed my favorite (and only) nephew Lonnie’s wedding in
Pennsylvania, outdoors at the bride Brianna’s generous and welcoming auntie’s
home. This is not something I do very much anymore, but Lon prevailed upon me
to officiate. It was truly a joyous occasion, as words of blessing and life-direction
were spoken and vows taken.
I witnessed the deepening bonds of their loving family-community, and I
reflected on the need to mentor and empower, guardian and steward these
irreplaceable natural resources, lifting them up in the light, while getting out of
their way as they carve out new traditions in this, their new world.
*Nagas are semi-divine part-animal dragon-like serpents who dwell in the depths
of the waters and guard the pearl of transcendental wisdom (Prajna paramita)
To more details regarding the Lama Surya Das, visit here at
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surya_Das