The Highway to Happiness

In July I found myself, along with three grandkids and my husband, driving along a familiar stretch of road, not unlike the one pictured, between Seattle and Salt Lake City. The grandchildren pointed out several signs that said "You're on the Hiway to Happiness." That was comforting to them, as they had left their parents behind in SLC and were on their way to spending a month with us. What they didn't notice was that the signs about "the Hiway to Happiness" were advertising our approach to the Wild Horse Casino which promised non-stop fun, gain, and happiness.

Mother that I am, I thought for a long while--even to this day months later--about what real happiness is and what road takes us there.

There are many trivial things that add to my happiness--playing with a child, growing something beautiful or edible in my garden, winning a tennis match, singing, baking something delicious, participating in a conversation with a friend or family member, and so on. All of these, and more, are part of the road to happiness.

For me, though, the thing that makes it all meaningful, all marvelous, all happiness, is the gospel of Jesus Christ. The good news that Christ was born, the He lives, that He is our Savior, that we can be His sons and His daughters, that His grace and mercy elevate, transform, forgive, guide, and redeem us.

I think of the path that leads to the Tree of Life. "I beheld a tree, whose fruit was desirable to make one happy...And as I partook of the fruit thereof it filled my soul with exceedingly great joy; wherefore, I began to be desirous that my family should partake of it also; for I knew that it was desirable above all other fruit....And it came to pass that I beckoned them...And it came to pass that they did come...and partake of the fruit also." (1 Nephi 8)

To me, that is the Highway to Happiness--partaking of the Love of Jesus Christ--with my family, with loved ones, with all who will come and partake.

Merry Christmas! And Happiness in the New Year!