Happiness Quote by Nathaniel Hawthorne
“Happiness is like a butterfly which, when pursued, is always beyond our grasp, but, if you will sit down quietly, may alight upon you.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne, 1850
Happiness eludes active chasing; it often arrives when we are calm and present.
In simple terms: Happiness comes when we stop chasing it.
Be still and open to moments of joy.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- meditation
- creative work
- nature walks
- quiet reflection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you cultivate stillness daily?
- What habits keep you from being present?
Happiness may still be elusive despite stillness.