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Credit: DH Illustration
In the ever-evolving journey of life, we often find ourselves in pursuit of happiness. We chase after material possessions, fame, and success, believing that these external factors will bring us the joy and contentment we seek. Little do we realize that happiness is not something we need to chase, but rather, something that lies within us, waiting to be discovered.
The ancient Chinese philosophy of removing unwanted material to reveal the hidden idol is a metaphor for this concept. Just as a skilled sculptor chisels away at a block of stone, uncovering the masterpiece hidden beneath, we too can uncover the happiness that lies within us by chipping away at our worries and fears.
Worries, like the stone, are not inherently bad; they serve as a protective layer, safeguarding our inner happiness. They prevent us from taking unnecessary risks and keep us grounded in reality. However, when worries take over and consume us, they become a barrier that keeps our happiness hidden.
To unlock the happiness within, we must learn to recognise and address our worries, rather than allowing them to control us. By confronting our fears and insecurities head-on, we can begin to chip away at the stone that has hidden our inner joy.
One way to do this is by practicing mindfulness and self-awareness. By being present in the moment, we can recognize when our worries are taking over and take steps to manage them effectively.
This may involve deep breathing exercises, meditation, or simply taking a moment to step back and assess the situation objectively.
Another way to remove worries is by focusing on gratitude. By cultivating an attitude of appreciation for the good things in our lives, we can shift our focus away from our fears and towards our blessings. This shift in perspective can help us see the world in a more positive light, making it easier to let go of our worries.
The happiness we seek is already within us, hidden beneath layers of worry and fear. As we remove the unwanted material, we reveal the hidden idol of happiness, bringing light and laughter into our lives.