motivations , and to fashion a life and a self according to high virtues that reflect true humanity . The happiness it promises rests on character rather than the pleasures promised by advertisers . The character it hopes to form is of a different kind than the self-sufficiency promoted by instilling an entrepreneurial spirit in Albertans .
While fleeting pleasures are ephemeral , happiness as a product of character offers more substance . However , how does the aim of human excellence relate to suffering in our world ? These days , our eyes are drawn toward the agony in Ukraine . Beyond Ukraine , we think of a long list of places where armed conflict is destroying lives . Afghanistan , Ethiopia , Libya , Mali , Myanmar , Syria , and Yemen are prominent examples , but the list could be longer . Then we could and should make lists related to poverty , to discrimination , to environmental degradation , and many other issues . Is there any way to be present in a world of suffering , and to lament its effects , while making happiness our aim ?
Perhaps we are mistaken in aiming for happiness , despite the nudging of advertisers or the venerable traditions that link happiness to character development . What could replace it even while we keep our eyes focused on the suffering around us ? One answer , also with a time-honoured pedigree , is gratitude . Gratitude takes our attention away from the things we desire or have achieved and focuses it on what we have been given . Gratitude may not aim at happiness , but it can offer contentment .
Lloyd Den Boer is a retired educator , living in Edmonton with his wife . They have many things to be grateful for . Like so many others , they are practising how to be content with them .
Calgary Retired Teachers — “ Steppin ’ Out ” Again
After being bounced twice by COVID-19 and a hiatus of three years , on April 21 and 22 , CRTA ’ s “ Steppin ’ Out ” Banquet and Conference rolled out their welcome mat .
Slowed , but never daunted , the organizing committee was aided and abetted by twenty-one eager presenters and the staff of the Riviera Conference Centre . Together they threw open the doors and welcomed an audience eager to meet , greet , and participate in the events .
On Thursday evening , wildlife enthusiast Brian Keating , formerly of the Calgary Zoo , led banquet guests on a spirited video journey to some of the planet ’ s best wilderness locations . Conference sessions the next day provided a plethora of equally fascinating and involving presentations .
A success in every way , participants left sated with the intellectual and culinary fare .
Thanks to ARTA for their generous support . Next up , “ Steppin ’ Out 15 ” in April 2023 .