Random Stranger's definition of Happiness from TED comment

Below is a comment I found while researching on TED. This lady has a very articulate and well-defined insight on happiness.

Jesse Teshara – November 28 2008

I'll do a public verbal think on what I believe happiness is: the absence of suffering/irritation, first of all.Pain is usually suffering, although it doesn't have to be (such as masochism, or if it serves some higher purpose, e.g. the "redemptive value of suffering," which I admit I've never understood or been keen on...The Giving Tree says the tree "was happy, but not really" -we all want real happiness, no?).

Maybe happiness is simply a decision to be happy. Once made, you remember and find out what makes you happy and only do those things. Think happy thoughts.Gradually replace negative ones/patterns.

Malcolm Gladwell's pasta sauce video says we often don't know what makes us happy.Thus, we should keep journals with lists of the various things we've come across that we enjoy. And we should be open to new things and taking risks so we can find new joys.Variety is the spice of life. We should sample the various pursuits of others who have found happiness, including health, wealth, love (god), service, and meditation.Loving kindness, friendship.People define wealth for themselves. Songs:Ren and Stimpy sang happy happy joy joy.Bob Marley and Bobby McFerrin sang Don't worry, be happy.The Beatles sang Happiness is a warm gun (mama).The Hard Rock cafe says love all, serve all.Satisfy your soul/5 senses: Good music, meals, movies, massage,scent, books. Art. Candles,warm bath,fireplace. Comfort. Hard work, satisfying sleep.And being healthy, body and mind. Laughing, good humor, defeating depression through vigorous action.Sports, winning, getting stronger, more fit.Endorphins.Fitness and exercise, paired with good clothes, so you look good, feel good.Empowerment.Self-defense.Simple pleasures, and the more complex ones.Calm, tranquil, serene/Rollercoasters,skydiving/Hobbies,fun. My wife says you should have self-confidence and love yourself.Jesus said love your neighbor as yourself.Smiling makes you happier.Smile, you're on candid camera. Peace,harmony. Freedom.Live! A rock.:-)