"Happiness is the only good. The time to be happy is now. The place to be happy is here. The way to be happy is to make others so."
Robert Green Ingersoll
"Happiness is the only good. The time to be happy is now. The place to be happy is here. The way to be happy is to make others so."
Robert Green Ingersoll
Robert Green Ingersoll, born on August 11, 1833, was an American lawyer, orator, and staunch advocate of secularism and free thought. The quote, "Happiness is the only good. The time to be happy is now. The place to be happy is here. The way to be happy is to make others so," encapsulates his humanistic philosophy, emphasizing the importance of living fully in the present and spreading joy to others.
Ingersoll's assertion that "happiness is the only good" places happiness at the center of human existence, suggesting that it is the ultimate goal worth pursuing. Unlike material wealth, power, or status, which are often transient and superficial, happiness is portrayed as the most valuable and enduring aspect of life. This perspective aligns with the principles of humanism, which prioritize the well-being and fulfillment of individuals over abstract ideologies or dogmas.
The phrase "the time to be happy is now" reflects Ingersoll's belief in the importance of the present moment. It speaks to the idea that happiness should not be deferred to some future time or contingent upon specific conditions. Instead, it urges individuals to seek joy in the here and now, embracing life as it is rather than waiting for some idealized future.
Similarly, "the place to be happy is here" emphasizes the significance of finding contentment in one's current circumstances. Ingersoll's words encourage a mindset of gratitude and acceptance, recognizing that happiness is not necessarily tied to a particular location or situation but can be found wherever one chooses to cultivate it.
Finally, "the way to be happy is to make others so" underscores the interconnectedness of human happiness. Ingersoll suggests that true happiness is not a solitary pursuit but is deeply linked to the well-being of others. By contributing to the happiness of those around us—whether through acts of kindness, compassion, or support—we enhance our own sense of fulfillment. This notion is rooted in the understanding that human beings are social creatures, and our joy is often amplified when shared with others.
Ingersoll's quote encourages a proactive approach to happiness, urging us to take responsibility for our own joy and to actively contribute to the happiness of others. It reflects a philosophy of life that is grounded in the present, oriented toward positive action, and centered on the well-being of both the individual and the community.