Cultivating Happiness, Not Hedonism December 19, 2010
Posted by nrhatch in Happiness, Mindfulness, Spirit & Ego.comments closed
Zoe wrote a thought-provoking post on The Matter of Money, followed by a somewhat related post on Happiness.
I replied, inter alia, “Happiness is . . . the goal behind all goals. ~ The Dalai Lama”
In response, Zoe referred me to a post from Midlife Makeover, On Being Happy.
Reading that post caused me to comment further on Zoe’s post:
I read the post and comments and think that perhaps we are using two different definitions of happiness.
When the Dalai Lama advocates happiness as the goal behind all goals, he is speaking of inner happiness, peace, contentment, and serenity. He is not advocating the pursuit of hedonistic pleasures.
Happiness for external reasons (especially hedonistic pleasures) can always be taken away. It is happiness for “no reason” that we want to cultivate.
When we seek meaning and purpose in our life . . . it is because having purpose and meaning makes us happy. When we act compassionately towards others . . . it is because being compassionate makes us happy.
We rarely find lasting happiness by being selfish narcissists.
* * * * *
To clarify:
When I speak of happiness, I mean serenity, not hedonism.
Quote #1: When asked, “what is the meaning of life,” the Dalai Lama replied simply: ”To be happy and to make others happy.”
Quote #2: If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion. ~ The Dalai Lama
Related posts: Dalai Lama: Inner Peace & Happiness * Generosity of Spirit * What is True Happiness? (Always Well Within)
Welsh Rarebit Dip December 19, 2010
Posted by nrhatch in Food & Drink, People, Vegetarian Recipes.comments closed
Tammy posted ten delicious appetizer ideas that are quick, easy, and don’t require a recipe, perfect for holiday gatherings: Easy Holiday Appetizers.
Here’s an appetizer idea based on Welsh Rarebit that requires a recipe, albeit a simple one:
Welsh Rarebit Dip
6 oz. beer
8 oz. Wispride cheddar cheese spread
8 oz. whipped cream cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
dash Worcestershire sauce
Round (or Oval) loaf of Sourdough, Rye, or Pumpernickel Bread
Blend first 3 ingredients together in a mixing bowl, blender, or food processor. Add garlic and Worcestershire.
Hollow out center of the bread by cutting off the top and scooping out the center. Leave at least 1″ of bread on the bottom and sides to form a bowl.
Cut the removed bread into cubes for dunking.
Pour the Cheese Dip into the center of the hollowed out bread bowl. Sprinkle with finely chopped parsley or paprika to garnish.
Serve cubed bread on the sides for dipping.
Related posts: Curry Dip * Tomato Cheese Spread * A Month of Meatless Meals
Spirit Lights The Way 