Hi, Drabsv,

How are ya? 

In my opinion, happiness seems to be ever elusive.  However, if one studies the philosophies of the ancients, there are clues as to how one may experience happiness.  The reason it seems so elusive is that the method is very hard for most people to accomplish.

First, one must become "immune" to the environment around him/her.   (I believe this is a Stoic philosophy.)  No matter what happens, one must "ignore" such events by realizing they don't, can't and shouldn't affect how one "feels" about or reacts to the situation or the world.  This is not to say that one should not be concerned with one's troubles; only that one should make a plan to solve the problem and ask God to help with the answer, if it is personal, or gain the assistance of others, perhaps, if universal. 

Second, one must realize that most events are out of his/her control.  Therefore, there is no need to become enraged or disappointed. 

Third, one must read the Bible, study Jesus' teachings, and try to follow his example.  It is true that if one prays for help and leaves "things" in God's hands, genuine peace of mind is possible.  I've been practicing this since high school, when I couldn't fall asleep for worrying whether or not I knew material for the next day's test(s).  Once I asked God to help me remember all the answers, I could peacefully fall asleep.  (I was valedictorian of my graduating class, so I know it works.)

Fourth, one must learn to live "day-by-day."  The future will take care of itself. 

Fifth, one must make sure that he/she does everything possible to lead a "good" life,  One must consistently do his/her best in all situations, at home, at work, wherever; thus, there is no need for guilt or shame if one knows, even if others don't, that he/she  tried to do the best job possible.  Such an attitude will definitely lead to inner peace.  Ethics, loyalty, truth-telling and integrity are integral to this process.

I have read many books on philosophy, including the Bible, and their tenents have become homogenized in my head; therefore, it is difficult for me to point to any one or two philosophies ("Zen," perhaps, also?).  I know what to do, but, even so, I've only gotten half-way through the process, as the world continues to test my will and strength, and sometimes circumstances overwhelm me.  Yes, elusive to me, too.  The process may be a long one because habits of thought are hard to change.  A true "paradigm shift" is called for.

Thanks for your most thoughtful and useful question.  Hope my little tidbit helps.  Our thought processes are engrained in our brains, and much "practice" is required to change them.  One must start somewhere, though, and if my version of this "happiness" philosophy is true for all people, as I believe it is, I know first-hand how difficult such is to obtain.  But, one must realize the reasons for any unhappiness and learn not to let them affect the person's own inner contentment, and take one step at a time in fulfilling life's most difficult task.