HAPPY

Be happy first before helping others. You can not help anyone if you are sad.

I heard this from a priest during his homily in one of the Sunday masses I attended. I have to say I agree with him. It made me look back and think of the dark times we had.

Before, when my wife and I were just starting our family, we went through a lot of struggles. Our financials are messed up. We were living paycheck to paycheck. Even if I had a better job earning more, it felt the same. We never had the luxury of buying expensive things. We never got the chance to go on vacation. Anniversaries and birthdays are spent in the mall eating fast food and window shopping. These tough times really tested our relationship and forced us to appreciate the simple things in life. We became experts at finding free or low-cost activities to enjoy with our children, turning everyday outings into special adventures. Our perseverance during those challenging years laid the foundation for the strong bond and resilience that now defines our family.

Our relationship was filled with turmoil and confusion. I walked a dark path that she could not follow, and the distance between us seemed to grow wider with each step. I made decisions that I believed were for the best, but in hindsight, they appeared irrational and out of character. Looking back now, it’s difficult to make sense of why I allowed myself to be consumed by such destructive behavior. I was lost in a maze of emotions and confusion, and it took me a long time to find my way back to a healthier state of mind.

And maybe, at some point in our lives, when we turned to God, everything came to light. Everything gradually became better. It was as if the light of hope had dawned upon us, illuminating the path ahead and filling our hearts with a sense of purpose. The challenges that once seemed insurmountable now appeared as opportunities for growth, and the darkness of despair was replaced by the warmth of faith. As we continued on this journey, we found solace in the belief that we were never alone and that divine guidance was always there to lead us through the trials and tribulations of life. The simple act of turning to God sparked a transformative process, infusing each day with newfound meaning and granting us the strength to overcome obstacles with unwavering resolve.

We are grateful for the opportunities we have been given, and we look forward to using them to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Sharing our blessings brings us immense joy and fulfillment, knowing that we can contribute to the well-being of those around us. As we continue on this fulfilling journey, we are dedicated to creating a nurturing environment for our children, where they can thrive and grow. Every step we take is with the intention of building a foundation for our children’s future, ensuring that they have the resources and support they need to pursue their dreams and aspirations. Our happiness stems from the knowledge that we are actively shaping a brighter future not only for ourselves but also for the generations to come.

Which is why what the priest said resonated with me so much. I remember those dark times vividly, the weight of sadness pressing down on every aspect of our lives, casting a shadow over our every thought and action. It was a time when it felt like we were trapped in an endless cycle of despair, unable to lift ourselves or anyone else out of the darkness. The overwhelming feeling of hopelessness consumed us, creating a barrier that made it impossible to reach out and help others. We realized that we had to find a way to climb out of our own emotional abyss before we could extend a helping hand to those around us. It was a long and arduous journey, but emerging from that darkness gave us the strength and empathy to be of genuine support to others in need.

Just like what flight attendants say on the plane, in case of an emergency, put your mask on first before helping others. This simple instruction carries a powerful message applicable to our daily lives. It emphasizes the importance of taking care of ourselves before extending help to others. It serves as a reminder that we cannot effectively assist others if we neglect our own well-being. By prioritizing our own physical and emotional needs, we become better equipped to offer genuine support and care to those around us. This principle resonates beyond the airplane cabin, as it encourages us to nurture our own health and happiness as a foundation for being of service to others.

Maybe some can help even if they are in a bad situation. Good for them. But I think that is not what most of us go through. There would also be some that seem happy but would not help. Well, are they truly happy? It’s often a complex web of emotions and circumstances that determine our willingness or ability to help others. Sometimes, even those who appear content or satisfied may be silently struggling with their own challenges, which can hinder their capacity to lend a helping hand. On the other hand, individuals facing adversity may find solace and purpose in supporting others, despite their own hardships. It’s a reminder that the human experience is multifaceted and cannot be easily defined by outward appearances or assumed emotions.

Let’s take care of ourselves by prioritizing self-care and fostering a positive mindset. Finding happiness within us is a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, allowing us to radiate positivity and compassion to those around us. It’s crucial not only for our own well-being but also for the betterment of the community. By nurturing inner contentment and spreading kindness, we contribute to creating a world where mutual support and empathy prevail, making it truly worthy for all its inhabitants.