Which Is To Say, Stop Being Miserable, You Miserable Bastard

06/26/2006 7:06 AM – 7:41 AM

Whenever possible, it’s better to be happy than miserable. This seems obvious, but since you often do not follow this simple rule, I thought it best to remind you. Misery does not imply depth, nor happiness foolishness. This is your life; when you’re dead, you’re the one that will be gone. Stop trying to show how smart you are by showing how well you know misery. You don’t need to show a godamn thing. Be, and in your being, be happy. It’s shallow to pursue pleasure, but it isn’t nearly as stupid as pursuing misery.

Pursue contentment, and, going further along, pursue delight. Be content in all things, but strive for delight. You will be dead and gone, and what can you take with you? Naked you came and naked you will go. Be kind but realize that you cannot make anyone happy. That is the special providence of the individual self. Let go of the way you look to anyone else, they aren’t going to be buried in your casket. Love your neighbor, but save yourself. You cannot save the world, you cannot save your neighbor, and it’s stupid arrogance to think you can. Let it go. Each man must dig his own grave.

So now you’re angry at the imposition that the existence of others places on you. Stop it. Doesn’t do you a damn bit of good. Smile and nod and go on your way. Remember that the greatest and most annoying Other is your self. This biting and kicking thing. While he is alive, a man that has control of himself can make a heaven out of hell. You’re still alive. Be content. Remember in all your fun things to do, that the only thing worth being is happy. When happiness won’t stay, let it go, but be content. This is enough. This will always be enough. Eat and exercise as is fitting a biological machine designated “hunter-gatherer.” Save as much money as you can, it’s the only way you’re allowed to tell society to go fuck itself. But remember that this right now is enough. Even if you never get to tell society to go fuck itself, this is more than enough, because you’re not dead yet and you don’t have to be miserable. So wake up. Notice your existence. Be happy, you miserable bastard.