What’s a common misconception people have about happiness?

They said happiness was somewhere out there—
waiting in the distance,
hidden behind achievements,
recognition,
and the things we hoped to one day possess.

But I discovered a different truth:

Happiness was a seed
already planted within me.

A garden of the soul,
watered by gratitude,
nourished by love,
and growing through purpose and faith.

The world may bring seasons of rain and sunshine,
but the roots of joy, my joy,
must reach deeper than circumstances.

I do not search for happiness
in places that cannot hold it.

I tend to the garden within—
where peace blooms,
where hope grows,
and where my soul learns to flourish.

Happiness is not something I find.
It is something I cultivate within.