My April 24, 2016 post addressed the question:  “Where to begin?”  It contained two advisory quotes, but yielding little comfort.  Two ancient writers, a philospher and a poet, provided cogent advise on the importance of taking that first step: 

—  “The beginning is the most important part of the work.”  Plato (circa 428 BC – 348 BC) , Classical Greek Philosopher

— “Well begun is half done.”  Quintus Horatius Flaccus (65 BC – 8 BC), familiarly known simply as Horace, a renouned Roman poet in Augustus’ time.   

Both quotes from these ancient proflicic writers provide valuable advice, even in modern times; but neither offer any tips on how to begin a work.  The struggle to begin remains inhibiting.  

Eventually, because of necessity, one must begin any onerous task somewhere.  After begining, then what?  After a cautious move to begin a troublesome task, interest may flag, boredom may surface, difficulty may arise.  When that happens, one can fall back on two other proverbs:  

— “Whatever is worth doing is worth doing well”  Philip Standhope, 4th Earl of Chesterfield (1694–1773).  

—  “To begin is easy, to persist is an art,” a German proverb of unknown source, which keeps the compass pointed to true north.   

Focus brings any task at hand to eflect on the big picture to reach the ultimate goal.  When starting a new task, where to begin may be problematic, but beginning somewhere, anywhere, remains better than churning, mulling and figiting around without purpose.  Many times when facing a deadline, the writer does not enjoy the luxury of reflection, contemplation, organization.  When the outline does not come easily, the best practice:  Jump in and start, as this action, any action, will start the juices moving in your brain, even if the introductory portion must be totally discarded in the process.

The Declaration of Independence, authored by Thomas Jefferson, refers to “certain inalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of  Happiness.”  We all know what life and liberty means to us, but what constitutes “happiness” may vary with the individual.  How have others pursued happiness?

— “Happiness cannot be pursued; it must be ensued.”  Victor E. Frankl (1905—1997), an Austrian neurologist, psychiatrist

 — “Success is not the key to happiness.  Happiness is the key to success.  If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”  Albert Schweitzer (1875—1965), German theologian, philosopher and physician

Charles Schultz (1922—2000) the beloved author of the popular Peanuts comic strip, followed Schweitzer’s formula and enjoyed much success over a nearly fifty year career.  Schultz developed many themes over his career, including: the Great Pumpkin, Linus’ blanket and Lucy’s psychiatry booth. But Schultz’s “Happiness is . . . “ theme reached reader’s eyes and ears everywhere, and grew into books and television programs:  

— Happiness is a Warm Puppy (Peanuts) by Charles Schultz (1962)

— Happiness is a Sad Song (Peanuts) by Charles Schultz (1967) 

— Happiness is a Warm Blanket, Charlie Brown, TV special by Charles Schultz (2011)

That Peanuts theme generated a “Happiness is . . . “ craze across the country.  People tried to outdo each other to create unique happiness quotes, like:  Happiness is the end of the workweek;  Happiness is a stiff drink;  Happiness is . . . .  Despite all that hoopla, some serious writers believe real happiness stems from love, as in the following quotes to ponder:

— “There is only one happiness in this life, to love and be loved.”  George Sand (1804—1876), a French novelist.   

— “The greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved; loved for ourselves, or rather, loved in spite of ourselves.”  Victor Hugo (1802—1885), a French novelist and poet

— True happiness comes not from a limited concern for one’s own being, or that of those one feels close to, but from developing love and compassion for all sentient beings.”  The Dalai Lama. 

And where might one find happiness? 

— “Happiness is a place between too much and too little.”  A Finnish proverb.