Happiness Comes Only From Within

for Sohini

The world is a many splendored place
full of hardship and grace.
You may have some losses and and many wins
but remember, happiness comes only from within.

Much of our lives are spent striving, striving, striving...
for success, fortune and material things.
Relationships can bring joy, make you grin
but really, happiness comes only from within.

What is this "within," you may ask.
It is what's left when you take off the worldly mask.
If the fates decide to have their merry way,
"within" is what holds you in sway.

When they take away all that used to sustain,
yet, grounded to peace you remain.
Then, you have found the secret, my dear
and the path to well being will become clear.

Humans are fickle, money can come and go.
Good health is a blessing, until it isn't so!
Through all of life's travails, you must keep one thing whole
And that unchanging constant is your soul.

Don't let other's foolishness or mistakes leave a scar.
Taking responsibility fully for your attitude will take you far.
When external events overwhelm you, dig in.
For happiness, really, comes only from within.