8th July 2021 Ms Vasanthi Arasoo
Most people adore things of beauty and this painting is indeed one that displays beauty of sorts. It’s a self-portrait of Dr. Beena and her two lovely companions, Zara and Mika.
As I scrutinize the painting, all that comes to mind is the feeling of peace, calmness, joy, delight, happiness and being content with life. Well, isn’t contentment the greatest form of wealth after all? What actually matters is that this is a feeling that cannot be bought. It is one that comes from complete satisfaction of the heart. Being humans, we each have our very own likes and dislikes. Not all of us find joy in nature. Most people chart their lives to achieve happiness and depending on what it is, they would try their best to get hold of it. There are those who work day and night to earn enough to buy all the possessions that their hearts desire. There are also those who work day and night just because they love what they do and they find happiness in their job. There is no joy in life other than job satisfaction.
In addition, there are others who would go out of their way to hike and conquer the tallest mountain in the world for the adrenaline rush and exhilarating experience that very few have achieved. All achievements in life will surely bring joy and satisfaction whether small or big. The question now is who determines the magnitude of satisfaction when something is achieved.
When you see a smiling face, two happy pets, a beautiful shady tree, lovely blooms in a pretty garden, birds chirping and enjoying the wonderful weather, does it make your heart dance with joy? Does your heart miss a beat as you treasure the moment of being in the midst of all things beautiful? Those who are at peace with themselves and can find calmness in the midst of all storms will certainly be able to enjoy the beauty of nature as it gives them joy to be surrounded by such beauty.
There are many things to be achieved in life but upon achieving them, the pleasant feeling of joy and contentment should follow. This is a feeling that cannot be bought but one that can be trained by the mind. We are the ones who determine the magnitude of satisfaction in our lives.
Dr. Beena’s self-portrait is one that overflows with contentment for those who who find peace with nature and all things beautiful. To end, I quote Paula Rollo,
” Contentment does not mean that I desire nothing. But rather, it’s the simple decision to be happy with what I have”.
11 thoughts on “Contentment”
Hi Vasanthi
Lovely story on the concept of contentment. For many, contentment is to have a dream job, home, assets, and family. Everything now is measured by wealth. It is a sad emptiness that many have fallen into this bottomless abyss. There is a difference between happiness and contentment. However, there is no awareness. Reading your story made me think of Ikigai. Maybe that can be the next story by anyone.
Thank you
Beena
Yes, sadly it is something to be discovered through efforts in the right path. Hope more people are aware of it. Thanks Dr. Beena.
Dear Beena,
All research has clearly shown that all external and material acquisitions has not brought contentment to anyone..it is something that comes rom within..when the mind is tranquil and peaceful and calm.
Thats what your painting clearly evokes.. love the smile on your face ..love to see Zara and Mika in a bigger format with their expressions very visible ..love the autumn colours..😍
Hi Suchi
The lovely story on Contentment is written by Ms Vasanthi Arasoo to my painting. I love the way she found the concept of contentment in that painting. Once again the focus is on simple things in life that we take for granted.
Hope to read your story soon
Beena
This picture speaks to me that this is what life should be after retirement. I had always thought that once you don’t have to worry specifically about materialistic things, the next goal is having good health as it is the greatest wealth of all but just realised (after scrutinising the painting) that CONTENTMENT is also vitally important. I guess the picture evokes the question in me – am I contented? Sadly my answer is no. This is a reminder to me to go for peace and contentment as my primary goal in the last quarter of my life. Just looking at the garden 🪴 makes me feel peaceful and the lovely smile of Dr Beena speaks volumes on achieving contentment. I have to push myself towards that goal as I first have to overcome all forms of discontent – actually it just hit me that frankly I am okay comparatively but first have to overcome the lethargy that has overtaken my present post-retirement life. My future goal is to try and be positive about the present situation and look deep into me to overcome restlessness and achieve a degree of contentment. I am rather amazed at the artistic skills exhibited so far – in a way painting is a form of contentment. Thank you for opening my eyes (inner).
Hi Vany
Am glad that you liked the story of contentment written by Vasanthi. Like everything in life we need to practise. It is not easy. I struggle a lot with trying to find peace. Try to focus on small things. Like the smell of nice food. Focus on that. Slowly build on that focus. There are lots of articles that you can find these days. Find one where the goal matches yours. It will work.
All the best
Beena
There is hope after all. Positivity is the essence of retired life 🙏🙏🙏
Dear Dr Vany,
I am sure you will find contentment if you do not consciously seek for it. Retirement brings about many questions especially to busy individuals who expect to go on doing something. Just try to relax and smell the roses. 😊😘
Love the quote by Paula Rollo!!
Hi Beena
Who knew? I sure didn’t !
Having said that, I’m very impressed with
your style of painting for two reasons. First,
your paintings reflect a warm and relaxing
picture of life. Second, the artwork tells us
a lot about your personality, Beena. The
words thoughtful, interesting and sincere
come to mind.
I’m glad we are friends.
Alan
Hi Alan
Great to hear from you. Glad that you like the style of art. Am still in the learning curve.
Hope to hear from you always
Your friend
Beena