What is happiness?

"What is happiness?

There are three type of happiness in the universe.

First type: Seeking the system of sensual pleasures, the crudest kind. The moment we obtain something, we think fame and fortune make us happy. But if you notice, at that moment, a sense of fulfillment arises because we have achieved it—it's a difference between much misery and less misery. When a creature desires sensual pleasures and those desires are satisfied, that creature will surely feel fulfilled. This is similar to all worldly people.

Second type: Determination and concentration. Using the method of focused intention, once accustomed, we feel fulfilled. Happiness comes from tranquility, a state of deep, focused meditation, simpler than the initial state. This type of happiness should be pursued more because it doesn’t require seeking or wasting time. It brings immediate fulfillment, yet it is still impermanent.

Third type: Recognizing the drawbacks of all suffering because it is impermanent and subject to change. Once the drawbacks are seen, one becomes weary and lets go of attachments, leading to dispassion. By relinquishing self-identity, one is liberated. As liberation and fading attachment occur without clinging, this leads to personal Nirvana, which is the ultimate.