In a world where the pursuit of personal happiness often overshadows traditional values, the ancients believed that true blessings come from good virtue. The ancients identified five blessings: longevity, wealth, health and peace, good morals, and an excellent end to one’s life. Marriage is absent from this list, suggesting that a content life does not necessarily depend on romantic relationships.
The pursuit of happiness in modern society
Today, many wealthy individuals find themselves unhappy, their insatiable desires leaving them devoid of peace. Celebrities, despite their age, remain fixated on romantic relationships, swinging between the highs of new love and the lows of heartbreak and depression. Observers have noted that those engaged in early romances, same-sex relationships, extramarital affairs, and substance abuse often suffer from higher rates of depression, which some might interpret as a form of divine retribution.
The ancients saw marriage as a matter of fate and karma, emphasizing parental arrangements and matchmaker’s words. In contrast, modern individuals define happiness as a feeling or finding the “right” person, often through multiple relationships, cohabitation, and remarriages. Traditional wisdom, however, suggests that true happiness relies on one’s virtue, and that selfish actions will ultimately backfire.
Hollywood’s cautionary tales about forsaking virtue
The story of a Hollywood actress whose beauty and talent were once celebrated is a stark reminder of the perils of forsaking virtue. After reaching the pinnacle of her career and winning an Oscar, her affair with a married actor led to both of them divorcing their spouses to marry each other. However, her later life was marred by mental illness, abandonment, and a tragic end.
Had she chosen to follow her “old script” of a peaceful life with her lawyer husband, she might have avoided the karmic consequences of her extramarital affair.
In stark contrast, a second actress, who also enjoyed immense popularity, led a scandal-free life with her husband, exemplifying the saying: “Being beautiful is an advantage, living beautifully is an art.” Her choice to value character over passion in her marriage set her life on a stable and fulfilling course.
The notion of beauty’s curse suggests that beautiful women are doomed to tragic fates. However, destiny is not cruel. Instead, it’s the challenges that come with beauty, such as attracting unworthy suitors. As the second actress did, those blessed with beauty must have a discerning mind to navigate life’s temptations, ensuring a stable and happy life.
The consequences of misguided desires
Ancient texts like Moral Education Mirror tell stories of individuals whose improper desires led to their downfall. Whether it’s a scholar’s arrogant fantasies of success and concubinage or a young man’s unkind intentions toward his wife, these tales highlight the importance of maintaining a clear conscience and humility.
The first actress’s downfall and the second’s success can be attributed to their attitudes toward pride. Many people, enamored with their beauty or talent, become arrogant, forgetting that life is impermanent and ever-changing. Humility is a virtue that remains relevant regardless of the era.
The prevalence of romantic films and the societal emphasis on fame and wealth have skewed our perception of love and morality. However, upon reflection, it becomes clear that traditional values and moral conduct are not constraints, but protections that guide you toward genuine happiness.
Self-reflection and the essence of marital bliss
The foundation of a happy marriage is not found in intense passion, but in mutual respect and kindness. By shifting your perspective from seeking external validation to cherishing your relationship, you appreciate the traditional wisdom that advises you to treat your spouse with dignity and care.
In summary
The stories of the two actresses and the ancient parables are potent reminders that the path to happiness is paved with virtue, not vice. In your quest for fulfillment, it’s essential to remember that the most profound joy comes from within, from living a life of integrity and treating others with respect.
As you navigate the complexities of modern relationships, do not forget the timeless lessons of your ancestors, for in their wisdom lies the key to a truly blessed life.
