A long time ago, the Korean singer Ok-Boon Nam-Gung sang “A Young Person Who Eats Dreams.” One line from the lyrics still echoes in my heart: “Happiness is always found in the heart.” Youth gives us the power to dream, and some may call that hope. Though my present circumstances are not very abundant, my dreams and hopes have not disappeared. The reason is that I have come to understand the true meaning of happiness.

Once, I asked ChatGPT the question: “What is the source of happiness?” It offered many perspectives—gratitude, good relationships, a meaningful life, achievement, growth, health, autonomy, living in the present, and spirituality. From this, I was reminded again that happiness is not just a fleeting emotion but is deeply connected to our attitude and direction in life.

In January 2000, I left Korea and have lived as an immigrant ever since—for the past 25 years, 24 of them in New Zealand. Life in a foreign land has never been easy, but I have no regrets because of the grace and blessings I have experienced along the way. Above all, after encountering Jesus personally, my perspective changed. I came to believe that while life has hardships, it does not have to contain unhappiness.

Not long ago, during a gathering in Auckland, Pastor Eun-Ho Kim, the representative of the Daniel Prayer Meeting, delivered a message. One phrase especially stayed with me: “Ambition begins with oneself, but vision begins with God.” Ambition may bring temporary satisfaction and joy, yet because it constantly demands more, it cannot lead to true happiness. Vision, on the other hand, follows God’s will and timing, allowing us to experience happiness in dreams and hopes.

Ultimately, happiness cannot be fulfilled by ourselves alone. As the lyrics of “The Thorn Tree” by Poets and Villagers confess, “There are too many of me within myself,” we often crowd out the space where God’s will should dwell. Yet, when God’s vision takes its rightful place at the center of our hearts, happiness deepens. I believe God desires that we live joyfully in His will every day.

As I finish writing this column, I ask myself, “What blessing from heaven is given to me today?” With gratitude for the peace promised by the One who guards and protects me, I fold my hands in prayer:

“Lord of love, please plant in my heart a strong faith that finds happiness in fulfilling Your good will, and grant me the wisdom of Solomon.”