Happiness requires obstacles that are at least partially known, and the sense they are being or can be overcome. Of course, the presence of obstacles implies the presence of some goal, purpose or intent against which the obstacle is seen to operate.

Magically having everything "be" perfect is a delusory version which in fact (if it were possible) would breed a kind of mute unhappiness unless it included more goals to go for. Having everything provuided for you forever--the fate of some trust fund babies, for example--generates brain-dead humans, or, in stronger souls, rejection or rebellion.

This is why Jefferson's great wisdom in using the phrase "the pursuit of happiness" was so enduring.


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