It Begins with a Spark

by Don Laird, MS, NCC, LPC

My advice? As therapist, I give little. But as a humble steward of the planet? Here it is: Action, not words. Professionally, I am asked many things, some are heartbreaking, some are deep and provocative, while others are light and humorous. However, two questions that I hear quite often have little to do with psychology or counseling. How does one respond to someone who asks, “What is happiness?” or “What is the meaning of life?” Though well versed through personal experience, I am hardly a pundit on such matters. Yet, I remain “tragically” optimistic that we can still resolve to acknowledge and respect each other, not just as beings made unique by our differences, but as fellow travelers to the grave. Our journeys begin and end in a brilliant spark, and to know death is to know life and vice versa.

So if the answer to what we want in our lives is more happiness and meaning, then what are the obstacles? And are these obstacles self-imposed? Be honest. Moreover, if we know the answers then maybe we are not asking the right questions. Do we fear death? Do we fear life? If so, how do these fears influence our ability to be “happy” and to live the life we want or think we want? 

Weltanschauung is a fun German word meaning ideology, political doctrine, dogma or articles of faith. Yet, with all its trappings, weltanschauung shouldn’t solely define our purpose as a species. For one thing, it may provide a brief respite, some peace of mind, but it certainly does not foster happiness. And for the record, suspicion, ignorance and prejudice kill. Abhorrence of others and fear of the unknown sabotage the very happiness we profess to want in both our personal and collective experiences? My point is that happiness is fleeting. Its time with us is brief as it is birthed in thought, sustained in action and nurtured in experience. The flesh eventually fails, our efforts in life do not. They ripple. In short, the answer to finding happiness (if there is one at all) lies somewhere between I should do, and I will do. There is a time for prayer, meditation, positive thoughts, and reflection, but these alone will do little to make or sustain change. Action, Not Words. If the January 21 global protests say anything, it is that words plant hope, but action bears the fruit.

Oh, and as for the meaning of life? Go. Make. Something…

Peace, love, and better days to you and yours in 2017.

- Don

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Don Laird is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor with more than 14 years experience helping adults, teens, and couples who are struggling with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anger, anxiety, depression, divorce, grief and loss and trauma. As well as providing psychotherapy and couples counseling services, Don is a published author who teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in professional counseling and psychology at Carlow University, and hosts a podcast on the subject of psychology.