The first and perhaps only true determinant of happiness is found in not constantly searching for happiness. Statistics show that the rate at which people consume alcohol has declined significantly, but many have switched to harder substances. While alcohol consumption is not good either, people who are constantly searching for happiness or trying to escape reality have upgraded to more dangerous substances.
These hard substances are a major reason we are witnessing increasing rates of kidney failure, liver failure, and mental breakdowns among young people today.
On the other hand, while drugs are affecting mostly young men, the fashion and beauty industries are giving young women reasons to become artificial. There is a reason it is called artificial or plastic. The quest to avoid aging has led many people to use organic creams containing high levels of steroids and other substances, sometimes unknown even to those mixing them.
These concoctions have contributed greatly to the rise of diseases such as cancer, kidney failure, and liver failure.
In today’s world, people are not reading as much anymore. Content creators have become the primary source of information for many. We often know the truth from the lies, yet for some reason, we ignore the truth and embrace the lies.
There are many disturbing things happening in today’s society. Even when we know they are wrong, we choose to participate in them because we do not want to appear different or be seen as unaccommodating.
My point is that it is time to educate yourself and define your own values and principles. Take charge of your health and well-being. Many of the people parading as if they care are business men and women. They are often more concerned about profits than about your health or recovery.
The only lasting happiness is the one that comes from within—the understanding that life will not always be perfect and that things will not always go according to plan. External stimulants and substances only keep people trapped and stagnant in misery.
Here is what I propose, especially for those who are constantly trying to impress others: remember that you are unique and enough. Sadly, no one is really watching you until you start doing something extraordinary.
Read and question every piece of information. Protect yourself from these business men and women by eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. Food is different from a product; one exists for nutritional purposes, while the other is often designed primarily for the manufacturer’s gain.
Open your eyes and ears to positive energy, and close your mouth to negative words. Speak life into your days and nights, and never curse yourself.
In the end, what matters is not how beautiful you look, but how beautifully you have lived in the hearts of others. Always question decisions that do not align with your vision. Finally, do not simply exist in a vacuum; make sure your life is being lived with purpose.
I remain your friend and brother,
Maazi Onuora Obodoechi.
Pen it down. 