Where to find real secret of happiness
HEXHAM in Northumberland has topped the poll as the happiest place to live in Britain (Mail). In my opinion, some of the criteria for determining this accolade — community spirit, a sense of belonging, safety, access to nature and green spaces, plus friendly and polite people — entirely misses the point about what constitutes happiness. You can live in a town with all of these factors in abundance, but still be as miserable as sin.
Of course they can undoubtedly improve the quality of life, but in themselves they will not provide happiness. Real happiness is to be found when you have inner tranquility and are at peace with yourself. I was born and bred in Birmingham and love the city and all it has to offer. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. It has more parks than any equivalent sized European city.
I have written this letter in the glorious Lickey Hills, sitting in the autumn sunshine, surrounded by stunning woodland, squirrels and the sound of birdsong.
Birmingham may be a far cry from idyllic Hexham, but I’m blessed with good health and peace of mind. I’ve never been more content and happy. To echo Winston Churchill’s memoirs, I sleep soundly and have no need for cheering dreams when my head hits the pillow.
Home is home, wherever you may live. Life is the greatest journey you will ever be on. Learn to be happy now, otherwise you will run out of time. No matter how good or bad you think life is, wake up each day and be thankful for life and all its blessings. Envy no one because someone somewhere is fighting to survive. And remember that the most effective contribution towards the happiness of others is to be happy yourself.
PETER HENRICK, Birmingham.