The Pursuit of Happiness

The happiest life in the world is when you don't have to be number one. But also, the happiest life in the world is when you are number one.

That makes me ponder upon the pursuit of happiness (sounds like a movie title :D). A friend of mine once said to me "you cannot always be the first, the important thing is that you get the qualification and that's the time for you to blossom." Fair enough.

Before, I always strive for higher position in academics, but that still didn't bring me anywhere further. If I get first class in academics, then what? Do I get free passage to the heaven promised by the Lord? erm.. The prophet Muhammad once mentioned that the journey of pursuing knowledge will shape the path to the heaven.

But, truthfully, everyone of us should contemplate again and again, are we really in the pursuit of ever-lasting happiness or the worldly happiness? Honestly.. To become a 'worldly' doctor or to become a 'heavenly' doctor?

and...

are we in the pursuit of happiness??

Allah said in the Quran (Al-Baqarah 2 : 155) :

"And certainly, We shall test you with something of fear, hunger, loss of wealth, lives and fruits, but give glad tidings to As-Sabirin (those who patiently persevere)." 

...the pursuit of happiness is a ridiculous phrase...

...if you pursue happiness, you'll never find it...

"Happiness is a journey, not a destination"