We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Preamble to the U.S. Constitution
I can't help it. I've grown to love the Constitution. Law school has a way of doing that. Lately, I've been thinking about this particular sentence, even more - a particular phrase. The pursuit of happiness. Why must happiness be pursued? The founders of our country didn't admonish us to pursue life or liberty. But happiness? Happiness must be chased.
It is elusive.
To me, irony and the beauty of God live in this sentence. The irony is the Creator gave you the inalienable right to pursue happiness, while the answer to happiness, the only lasting source of happiness, lies in the Creator.
The beauty of God is that He should stand ready to embrace us even after our hearts have thrown themselves at every passing fancy, hoping a material thing, status, job, applause or person will satisfy their hunger for happiness, will give them rest from searching so they can enjoy life.
The Creator didn't send us out on a hopeless course. The journey ends where it began.
Psalm 16:11
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Great post, Laura! This is exactly what God has been teaching me (as you know:)).
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Cara
Love this.
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