Secrets of Happiness
When I have spare time, I try to occupy myself either by writing a novel or a short story, or even composing a poetic reflection. People often wonder: what is the secret to happiness? Let us begin with a Quranic inference: “In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful: ‘Whoever does righteous deeds, whether male or female, while being a believer, We will surely grant them a good life, and We will recompense them according to the best of what they used to do.’” True is Allah, the Almighty, the All-Great (Surah An-Nahl, 97). Here, Allah promises those who combine faith and righteous deeds a good life filled with contentment and tranquility.
First: Your relationship with Allah, the Exalted and Mighty. This is the root of all secrets; if it dries up, everything else will become burdensome for you. True happiness cannot be bought or sold; it is the tranquility of the heart. “And whoever believes in Allah, He guides his heart.” When your heart is connected to Allah, be assured that no one can shake or break you. This is especially true when you reach the stage of God-consciousness (Taqwa) with Him, characterized by certainty and contentment, knowing that your Lord will never forget you. Even if the answer is delayed or the world feels narrow, do not surrender to the steps of Satan.
Remembrance and Prayer: These acts of worship serve as a charger for the heart, particularly when you seek forgiveness and praise Allah.
Doing Good to People: Kindness to others is a form of worship. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The most beloved of people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people.”
Second: Your relationship with your parents. This is the secret that opens all doors to comfort and blessing. Unfortunately, people search for happiness outside, while it exists within the home, in the supplication of a mother and the contentment of a father. Their supplication is accepted, with no barrier between it and Allah. They are the source of blessing, and Allah may expand your provision due to their pleasure with you, as they are the origin of kinship. Always remember that you cannot possibly be happy while feeling you have fallen short toward them; happiness comes through them.
Social Relationships: Your relationship with yourself and your relationship with others are the two wings of happiness. You must treat yourself differently from how others treat you; stop self-torment even when you make mistakes. Learn from your errors, benefit from them, and turn mistakes into something positive. Make your basic needs a red line: ensure you take rest and sleep seven to eight hours daily. Gather with your family and friends, and learn to mend broken hearts. Do not be overly strict in holding others accountable, for the mind has limited capacities. Be careful not to hurt anyone. Love people, but do not allow them to hurt or attempt to insult you. Do not let anyone try to break you.
Fourth: Work. Work is the job that secures your monthly livelihood, but you must choose what suits you. If you have the option, select a job that aligns with your creative abilities and allows you to leave a lasting legacy for everyone. This gives you a sense of achievement and takes you out of the cycle of self-centered thinking. When you benefit others and forget your own worries, you will gain more knowledge of the outside world and build good relationships with others. It is dignifying to rely on yourself for a halal (permissible) livelihood that frees you from needing others, bringing a peace of mind that cannot be found elsewhere.
Fifth: Love for the Homeland. Loyalty must be to Allah and the homeland. A person without a homeland is like a tree without roots; no matter how large it grows, it will fall with the first gust of wind. The homeland gives you identity, belonging, and psychological security. When you say, “I am from Kuwait,” your chest feels at ease and you feel happiness. Loving one’s homeland is not just about land and travel documents; it is about complete loyalty, respect, and adherence to laws that preserve cleanliness and the environment. There are many poor countries that are rich in cleanliness and the loyalty of their people. The homeland is its people, memories, and a future you build with your own hands. May Allah protect Kuwait and its people from all harm.
