By Rev Jean Bradley minister at Brook Street Chapel

 

A FEW weeks ago, on the Sunday nearest to the International Holocaust Day, I spoke from the pulpit about our need to remember and learn from dreadful circumstances human beings created and that we should never allow ourselves to forget.

I continued by saying that I had a yearning for the more positive side of life and that we should celebrate our pleasant and happy lives by taking time to reflect on the good things.

I suggested that we should have a happiness day to encourage us to take time to realise all the wonderful moments in our lives.

When I returned home after the worship service and checked my emails, I discovered that one of our chapel members had ‘googled happiness day’ and discovered that there was already an International Day of Happiness.

It was established by the United Nations General Assembly on June 28, 2012 and resolved that, and I quote, ‘that the pursuit of happiness is a fundamental human goal. Recognising also the need for a more inclusive, equitable and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes sustainable development, poverty eradication, happiness and the well-being of all peoples, Invites all Member States, organisations of the United Nations system and other international and regional organisations, as well as civil society, including non-governmental organisations and individuals, to observe the International Day of Happiness in an appropriate manner, including through education and public awareness-raising activities’.

The inspiration of this special day derived from the small nation of Bhutan, whose people are considered to be the happiest people in the world.

This information spurred me to do something in our town, so I invite anyone who would like to attend Brook Street Chapel Hall at 10.30am on March 20 to join me in a time of acknowledging and sharing our happiest moments followed by a faith lunch, (please bring food for us to share). Let us make the International Happiness Day a day that we can truly celebrate together.

Any inquires to Jean 01565 754465 or chattyministerjean@gmail.com.