I remember going through several major transitions in my life, and thinking, the only thing I want at the 'end of the rainbow' is happiness.

I have learned, an accomplishment or achievement can't bring lasting happiness.  It may bring pride, but pride is quickly replaced by the next goal or achievement looking to be obtained.

Another person can't bring lasting happiness.  People come and go, and we have no control over them.  They can bring us joy, they can share love and laughter, meals and adventures, but they are not the source of our happiness.

A place can't bring lasting happiness.  Not even Miami.  I know, I've lived there for 10 years, and while some of the best friends in my life are still there, every place has its upsets.

The only way we can have lasting happiness is to know ourselves.  Being true to ourself, our needs, our heart--this is where we find happiness.  If happiness is a condition, "I will be happy when..." you will never have lasting happiness. 

Happiness is now.  

Happiness is not if your partner approves of what you are going to do next.  Happiness is not a beach and palm tree.  Happiness is not the next accolade you are going to be awarded.  Happiness is knowing your partner will love you no matter what you decide (and you will love yourself with every decision).  Happiness is knowing storms can be beautiful, too.  Happiness is pursuing the goal, messing up, and starting over--as many times as it takes (regardless of the results).  

We say happiness comes from within.  But I do believe we learn happiness from "without".  Without a lover.  Without a lot of money.  Without a big house.  Without a fancy car.  Without a bunch of materialistic things.  If we can't be happy without those things, we can never be happy with those things.  

I have friends that 'only want a relationship'... so they settle for less to have it.  And then they are disappointed it is not this magical solution to their problems.  What they wanted was appreciation, love, a healthy relationship that nourishes their soul.  This is where they need to begin.  Appreciate themselves:  know they deserve it, flaws and blemishes included.  Love themselves: for their mistakes in love, for their genuine abilities to love.  Nourish their soul: be at peace with whom they are.  It is truly amazing, how then, the perfect relationship finds you.

Happiness is you.  How you are today.  How you will be tomorrow. 

(And really, yoga helps.  Namaste.)