Edith Wharton: 'If only we'd stop trying to be happy we'd have a pretty good time.'

If only we'd stop trying to be happy we'd have a pretty good time.

The quote by Edith Wharton, "If only we'd stop trying to be happy we'd have a pretty good time," holds a thought-provoking message about the pursuit of happiness. On the surface, it may seem counterintuitive to suggest that we should stop trying to be happy in order to truly enjoy life. However, delving deeper into this quote, it reveals an unexpected philosophical concept that challenges our conventional understanding of happiness.In a straightforward manner, Wharton's quote suggests that our constant pursuit of happiness can actually hinder our ability to fully appreciate and embrace the joys of life. Often, we become so fixated on chasing happiness as if it were an elusive goal that we lose sight of the present moment. We set expectations and attach our happiness to specific outcomes or material possessions, which can lead to disappointment and dissatisfaction if those expectations aren't met.This quote makes us question whether our relentless pursuit of happiness is misguided. Perhaps happiness is not an end goal that we should tirelessly strive for, but rather a byproduct of living a life aligned with our values, fostering meaningful connections, and finding contentment in the present. By shifting our focus away from constant happiness-seeking, we open ourselves up to experiencing the beauty and wonder that exist in our everyday lives.Now, let's introduce the unexpected philosophical concept that can bring additional intrigue to our exploration of Wharton's quote. The concept of "wu wei" from Taoism can offer us an alternative perspective on finding happiness. Wu wei can be loosely translated as "effortless action" or "non-doing." It is the idea that by following the natural flow of life and embracing spontaneity, we can find contentment without the need for excessive striving or exertion.In contrast to the Western notion of actively pursuing happiness, wu wei encourages us to let go of control and surrender to the natural rhythms of existence. It recognizes that happiness cannot be forced or grasped but instead arises when we align ourselves with the harmony of the universe. By embracing the concept of wu wei, we can begin to understand Wharton's quote in a new light.In essence, the conjunction of Wharton's quote and the concept of wu wei invites us to reevaluate our approach to happiness. Instead of constantly chasing after it, perhaps we should cultivate a sense of inner peace and acceptance. By accepting the present moment as it is, without attaching our happiness to external circumstances, we can find contentment in the simple joys that exist around us.This perspective challenges the prevailing belief that happiness is something to be acquired or achieved. It encourages us to let go of our relentless pursuit and to embrace a more mindful and spontaneous way of living. In doing so, we may discover that by ceasing to try so hard to be happy, we can actually experience a more fulfilling and enjoyable life.In conclusion, Edith Wharton's quote raises important questions about the nature of happiness and its pursuit. By shifting our focus away from constantly striving for happiness, we can open ourselves up to a different way of experiencing life. The concept of wu wei from Taoism offers a compelling alternative, suggesting that true happiness can be found when we let go of control and embrace the natural flow of existence. So, perhaps by stopping our relentless search for happiness, we can indeed have a pretty good time.