Happiness and harmony go hand in hand: Harmony reflected outwardly is the feeling of happiness.

A meditation: Find a quiet spot to sit and contemplate the source of happiness. Begin by first establishing a pattern of even and regular breathing. This quiets the body and mind, which are tied to each other by breath.

Breathe in 2 counts; breathe out 2 counts; breathe in 2 counts and continuing the pattern without actually saying or thinking the numbers, just keep up the regular rhythm.

Now dwell on the following: When we come to the point where we give up on finding the source of happiness through worldly pursuits, we eventually analyze and try another avenue, which is exploration into the depths of our underlying supporting structure.

Happiness is experienced by harmoniously interacting in relationships and with our environment. A relaxed body and mind naturally allow that bubble of contentment, harmony, happiness to arise in daily situations.

Because happiness is an underlying spiritual quality, not dependent on the state of relationships and worldly issues, we retain consciousness of happiness even when people and things go from our life.

Think of it like this: When the current in a river changes, the qualities of the river remain the same. When events in our life change, the spiritual person we are remains the same: happiness is a quality of our spiritual nature.

A person living a simple life can feel the same degree of happiness as a millionaire if both feel appreciative, calm, in harmony with life.

That is not to say upsets won't come, but when we experience emotional, mental and physical disturbance we can allow these experiences to take their course, while remembering that they will pass and once again we will be able to return to and experience our state of balance and harmony.

The jewel to treasure is remembrance that happiness is always carried along with us as our spiritual nature. By maintaining bodily ease and interacting harmoniously we feel happiness.

Finish your meditation by slowly taking a deep breath in and gradually letting it out. Then take a few minutes to write in your journal any new insights from your contemplation. Stretch out and go on with your day in a harmonious way.

"Happiness
A quality of soul
Experienced
By harmonious living."

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More on happiness

Meditation for Determining Ways to Happiness
Codependency - Materialism and Happiness
Anger Robs Today's Happiness
Codependency - Ultimate Happiness

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For offline reading
Meditation for Teens and Adults
More than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.

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Also

Meditation for all Kids Sitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.

Article and photo of May Day celebration by Susan Helene Kramer