Summary

The content emphasizes that happiness is the foundation for a fulfilling life and the catalyst for success, illustrated by the life philosophy of Michelle Obama's father, Fraser.

Abstract

The article underscores the importance of happiness as the cornerstone of a happy life, suggesting that a positive mood should precede life's pursuits such as making money, academic achievement, and physical health. It draws inspiration from the life of Fraser, Michelle Obama's father, who maintained a joyful demeanor despite his struggle with multiple sclerosis. His unwavering happiness, hard work, and perseverance, even in the face of illness and adversity, are presented as a model for a successful and optimistic outlook on life. The narrative suggests that happiness not only contributes to personal well-being but also influences the attitudes of others, particularly children who are guided by the positive energy of happy parents.

Opinions

Happiness should be a priority, as it leads to success in various aspects of life, rather than being an outcome of achievements.
The conventional wisdom of hard work being the sole key to success is challenged, with happiness being proposed as an equally important starting point.
Fraser's approach to life, characterized by a strong work ethic, resilience, and a refusal to be defined by his disability, is admired and presented as a secret to successful parenting and living.
The article advocates for cultivating an optimistic mindset, which can be inherited by children, fostering a generation with a positive and meaningful approach to life.
It is suggested that society's common belief that happiness follows healing or success is flawed; instead, happiness should be independent of life's challenges.
The author acknowledges the profound impact of a parent's happiness on a child's worldview, emphasizing the importance of conveying joy and meaning in life.

Happiness is the most important thing

Happiness is the beginning of a happy life.

I have had extremely bad tempered parents. But many years later, I realized that bad situations come from bad tempers and bad moods.

I’m so glad I figured this out. Every day, don’t think about anything, just be happy first.

for example:

If you want to make money, be happy first, and then make money;

If you want to get an A, be happy first, and then study;

If you want to get rid of the fat on your stomach, be happy first, and then go to the gym;

…

Instead of saying:

When I earn money, I will be happy;

I’ll be happy when I get an A;

I will be happy when the fat on my stomach is gone;

…

Even like Michelle Obama’s father, even with illness and pain, he still lives happily every day.

Can you be happy even when your body is sick, and every day? I know you might say “I can”, but I promise, I can’t.

I think this is probably one of the secrets of Michelle Obama’s father Fraser’s successful parenting.

What kind of person is he?

Fraser had a strong work ethic and embodied perseverance. He worked for the city as a pump operator for the Chicago Water Department. He put on a uniform every day and showed up for work despite having multiple sclerosis (MS) since his 30s, which made everything he did — including mobility, walking, and speech — a challenge.

But Fraser never complained about his disability; he simply accepted it and did his best to ignore it. As Michelle writes, her family had a “long-standing habit of blocking out bad news.”

Fraser didn’t seem to care about his disability, he got up and did everything.

So, Michelle and her brother didn’t really realize that he was disabled until they’d go somewhere, and people would say, “hey what’s wrong with your dad’s leg?”

Fraser’s attitude towards life is admirable. The common man’s attitude is that if he is cured he will be happy. And Fraser believes that people should forget about illness and stay happy.

Michelle said:

“My father, Fraser, taught me to work hard, laugh often, and keep my word.”

This shows that Fraser understands the importance of an optimistic attitude very well.

Everyone always thinks that action is the beginning of success. This is right, but I want to say that happiness is more important. In fact, happiness is the starting point of happiness life and success.

I carefully experienced Fraser’s life philosophy and understood the wisdom behind this philosophy:

The joy of parents is telling their children:

“Hey! Boy, look, life is fun and life is meaningful…”

Then, under this kind of guidance, children will also have an optimistic and positive attitude.

So, we must not forget:

Happiness is the most important thing.

Happiness in life is brought about by a happy mood.