The Happiest Man on Earth by Eddie Jaku

What is happiness? Many people go through life searching for happiness but often get lost on the journey. We may be fixated on the past or anxious for the future and forget to enjoy the present. Eddie Jaku is a Holocaust survivor who learnt that despite entering the darkest of places, happiness can always be found and give meaning in life. His book, ‘The Happiest Man on Earth’ captures his struggles, acceptance and finding peace.

One can only imagine the experience that Eddie and many others endured during World War II. Eddie goes into detail of the suffering he endured daily, both physical and mental. Even after reading several World War II survival stories, I can’t begin to imagine how I would mentally recover after an experience like this. Stories like these make you appreciate the life you have and teach you to make the most of every day.

Where there is life, there is hope. Eddie decided that while he was alive, there was still hope and a desire to live. Many of us are fortunate enough to not live though life and death situations, but we should apply the same lessons to everyday life. Whilst we are alive, we should always have hope for the future despite any difficulties in the present. Hope creates a desire to go forward, which drives determination to achieve our dreams.

Being happy is a decision. Sometimes in life we cannot change the situations around us, but we can only change our mindset. Eddie made the decision to be happy everyday despite the most dire of circumstances. I believe this is an amazing ability that requires will power and a positive attitude. Many people struggle to find positivity in life. But contentment can be attained if you make a conscious choice to remain positive on a daily basis.

Eddie found happiness in the company of others, both in friends and family. His story really demonstrates the importance of having particular people in your life. Despite the physical distance, the thoughts of his family drove him everyday. I believe humans cannot survive without others. We require connections, unity, support and a place of belonging to thrive together. Finding special people in your life can bring meaning to every day.

Millions of individuals have lived similar experiences to Eddie, and he found meaning in telling his story for those who couldn’t. His story teaches the importance of finding happiness in the simplest of things, especially through connections he had with other people. This book captures the essence of life, enjoying the little things, and always being present.

I want to thank someone special for gifting me this book and inspiring me to write again. Being happy is a decision, and I encourage everyone to find happiness with special people everyday.