Happiness [hap-ee-nis] - noun
- the quality or state of being happy
- good fortune; pleasure; contentment; joy
Happy [hap-ee] – adjective
- delighted, pleased, or glad, as over a particular thing
- characterized by or indicative of pleasure, contentment, or joy
- favored by fortune; fortunate or lucky
- apt or felicitous, as actions, utterances, or ideas
This is how dictionary.com defines happiness.
The idea of happiness is something that I think about a lot. It’s a universal feeling that is defined differently by each and every person. It’s just a noun you can look up in the dictionary. For some, it’s an everlasting struggle. For others, it’s a permanent state, and it seems like they have it all figured out. I think I have an idea of what my happiness is but sometimes it seems like my definition is ever-changing.
I want to tell you about a Netflix movie that may completely redefine your idea of happiness. That’s right, a Netflix movie (I’m not even sure it was ever in theaters…), so you may have never heard of it. It’s called “Hector and the Search for Happiness.” I’m not going to lie; it’s a unique film. I’ve never seen one quite like it but it has topped my list.
In this film, Simon Pegg stars as Hector, a psychiatrist lost in the routine of his everyday life. Everything about his life is planned, perfect, and, honestly, boring. His girlfriend, Clara (played by Rosamund Pike), seems complacent with this monotony while secretly frustrated that nothing ever changes in their lives, or in their relationship. As a psychiatrist, Hector deals with patients on a daily basis, helping them with their problems in the hopes that they will be able to achieve a state of happiness. The conflict arises when Hector realizes that he, himself, isn’t happy. How can he help others realize happiness when he doesn’t even know what it is for himself?
To find the truth, Hector embarks on a long journey around the world to research happiness. First he goes to China, visiting women in the city and monks in the mountains. His next stop is in Africa, where he learns to appreciate life, love, and family, while dealing with drug lords and lions. Lastly, Hector visits Los Angeles, facing memories from his past -- lost relationships and foregone possibilities.
Throughout the whole journey, Hector keeps a journal of his findings. This journal is the foundation of the movie (and maybe the source for inspirational calendar quotes). In it is a list of observations and lessons regarding the concept of happiness, over numerous cultures and demographics, which he has personally witnessed and experienced throughout the film.
Making comparisons can spoil your happiness
A lot of people think happiness is being rich or important.
Many people see happiness only in their future.
Sometimes happiness is not knowing the whole story.
Avoiding unhappiness is not the road to happiness.
Does the person you’re with bring you predominately A): Up or B): Down?
Happiness is answering your calling.
Sweet Potato Stew
Fear is an impediment to happiness.
Happiness is feeling completely alive.
Happiness is knowing how to celebrate.
Listening is loving.
Nostalgia is not what it used to be.
I’ve never had sweet potato stew but this list is golden. It simplifies the definition; true happiness isn’t material. You are in control of your future. By the end of the film, it's evident that this fulfillment isn’t necessarily found at a destination but rather, it’s found in the journey. Regardless of your opinion of this film, you can’t deny its underlying genius. Hector is simply a representation of all of humanity, searching for what exactly it is that makes us happy.
