> No one is really truly happy, right? "Happiness" is multidimensional, so even describing it with one word is over-simplistic. Our minds are very complex; th

> No one is really truly happy, right? "Happiness" is multidimensional, so even describing it with one word is over-simplistic. Our minds are very complex; they have different levels of consciousness, intelligence, and perceptions at the same time. So one way I would describe "happiness" is to break it down like this: * Are you free from physical pain or discomfort? * Are your basic physical needs met (food, clothing, shelter, safety)? * Are you free of negative emotional states (fear, anger, sadness) and experiencing at least one positive emotional state (contentedness, excitement, laughter)? * Think about the "stories" of your life--what is currently happening to you and the goals you are following. Do you anticipate happy endings? * How do you feel about the relationship with the world around you? Do you fundamentally think you are a good person? Do you fundamentally think the universe is a good, safe place? Do you feel like your connection with the world around you is meaningful? If you are fulfilled in all of these areas, you'll be and feel truly happy. I've had times like that. So yes, it's possible for people to be truly happy. On the flip side, only one of those things have to be out of whack for us to feel unhappy, so that's why sometimes happiness can seem so elusive. So that's my 2 cents. And am I happy at the moment? No. :)