I Would Rather Be Content Than Be Happy

Let's talk about being happy. I know a whole host of "happy" people. Sometimes they are happier than other times. Happiness fluctuates on any given day and happiness is also temporary. You can win the lottery and be happy. If you spend all of the money, your happiness will quickly evaporate. Being content is another story. Contentment is all or nothing. There is no degree of contentment because you are either all-in or all-out.

So, when I heard that Diane Sawyer was searching for the happiest woman in America, I began to chuckle because it would depend upon the hour or the day. Happiness is fickle.

If you caught the news recently than you read the headlines that, "Mary Claire Orenic of Manhattan Beach, California", has been dubbed "The Happiest Woman In America" by USA Today. You can read the article here.

If Ms. Sawyer is searching for the Most Content Woman in America, then I nominate myself. Just like the Apostle Paul, I have found contentment in whatever circumstance I am in. It is a blessing and I consider myself blessed.

Philippians 4:11-12

"I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."

I actually like the definition of content from the ARDictionary (Accurate and Reliable):

"Definition: Contained within limits; hence, having the desires limited by that which one has; not disposed to repine or grumble; satisfied; contented; at rest."

There is something special about being content in all things. Your world is never lopsided and when it does tilt, you know that it will right itself again. You rest in that thought.

I wasn't always content - in fact, I had a restless period in my life. I was hungry for money, prestige, a booming career - it's a lonely place to be.

I wish Mary Claire Orenic of Manhattan Beach California all the best with her new title of the "Happiest Woman in America."

If she ever wants to meet the Most Content Woman, I hope she calls me.

Sources:

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/health/2011/11/02/im-happy-well-being-linked-to-children-diet-and-exercise/

http://yourlife.usatoday.com/parenting-family/new-passages/story/2011/10/Meet-the-happiest-woman-in-America/51007286/1

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/31/mary-claire-orenic_n_1068361.html

http://ardictionary.com/Content/11275