This is happiness
It was a condensed explanation, but I came to understand him to mean you could stop at, not all, but most of the moments of your life, stop for one heartbeat and, no matter what the state of your head or heart, say This is happiness, because of the simple truth that you were alive to say it.
— Niall Williams, This is Happiness
I love this quote because it embodies my definition of happiness so well.
Happiness is almost always available. Sometimes it's loud, sometimes it's quiet. Sometimes it's easy to tap into, other times you need to slow down and focus. But it's usually there.
Many people mistake happiness for a feeling, something that comes and goes on a whim. I think you can feel bad, but still be happy.
Happiness is realized gratitude. That framing is empowering.