The news of a school shooting by a 12-year-old school child this week, coupled with reports of Finland being the happiest country for the 7th consecutive year, has alarmed people globally.
How can one believe in the portrayal of Finland as the happiest country when such incidents are not uncommon? How does a country renowned for public welfare struggle with high rates of suicide and divorce? It's essential to critically examine the indicators used to measure the happiness index and recognize that this doesn't encompass all that humans seek. Finland has, indeed, excelled in certain measures that contribute to overall happiness, but it's important to acknowledge that not every individual in Finland experiences the same level of contentment.
As a research fellow in social policy at the University of Helsinki and having grown up in the lap of the Himalayas, something has always struck me. Despite the enormous advancements in technology and tools designed to assist daily life, happiness seems elusive. The more we accumulate, the more we worry. The more facilities we have, the greater our thirst for more.
Human nature tends toward perpetual questing. This has been the driving force behind human progress throughout history—from the Stone Age to the agricultural era to the modern age. Yet, as we witness the current technological revolution, the ultimate destination of human life remains uncertain. While lifestyles become more luxurious and convenient, a closer look reveals increasing inequalities within countries and societies, raising alarms.
Despite years of rhetoric from world leaders and the goals set by global organizations like the United Nations, World Health Organization, and the International Labour Organization, the gap between the rich and the poor continues to widen.
Where is global attention directed? Tighter borders, increased investment in national security (more weapons?), and religious confrontations are but a few examples.
Do people truly care about global warming beyond mere words? Isn't it evident that the Himalayas are melting and temperatures are rising? We all understand the eventual outcome, but who will bear the brunt? Those who vocally advocate and make grand promises often remain insulated from harm. Meanwhile, those who will suffer the most are often unaware of the impending danger, preoccupied with meeting their immediate needs, and unable to contemplate the future. Thus, nations responsible for creating this global disaster in the pursuit of development are not taking sufficient action to mitigate further damage. This fact requires no further explanation to justify.
Without further delay, let us address the main point. Where do we begin? There is no instant solution to mitigate these global crisis, but every journey starts with a single step. Let us take that first step today. Close your eyes for a moment and listen to your breath—the very essence that sustains us. This may seem ambitious, but it is a simple practice with profound effects.
Even in countries like Finland, known for their robust welfare policies, the public healthcare system is deteriorating. Citizens are increasingly turning to private insurance, marking a shift from socialist ideals to capitalist approaches. Globally, education and healthcare have become lucrative businesses.
In my research focusing on migrant health in Finland, I initially believed migrants faced the greatest challenges in accessing healthcare. However, native Finns also encounter daily obstacles, evident in the dwindling public expenditure on health and education.
While beliefs may divide us, the reality of nature unites us. A few words spoken with sincerity hold more power than volumes of accumulated books. Whether at school, work, or in prayer, let us expand our concerns beyond ourselves, our families, and our communities to encompass all living beings.
Media outlets thrive on negative news, leading to an inundation of pessimism that confuses and overwhelms people. In this age of information overload, individuals are left questioning whom to trust—mainstream media or citizen-generated content.
With the influx of outgoing migrants from Nepal, one can easily imagine that Western life is a dream for thousands of Nepalis today. It's evident in this global era that people aspire for better opportunities. Consider how Nepali individuals long for access to the Finnish welfare system, not to mention other developed countries like the USA and UK, often resorting to spending tens of thousands of dollars to enter these countries.
They form a small community in the sparsely populated country of Finland. The author has frequently observed cases of suicide attempts by Nepali people in Finland. This raises questions: What is amiss? Why are people from such economically challenged nations, gaining residency in one of the most developed and welfare-oriented countries—consistently ranked as the happiest—still dissatisfied and contemplating ending their lives? Doesn’t it signify that we failed to teach them to love and be content with whatever they have?
During a recent visit to Nepal, I participated in Vipassana meditation—a powerful technique that fosters self-understanding, empathy, and tranquility. I shared my experiences with a professor at Helsinki University, who also found solace in meditation.
Nepal, along with India, is at the forefront of integrating spirituality into daily life. Spirituality transcends religious beliefs and should be a cornerstone of our policies. Moral education, empathy, and the concept of a global family (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, Sahridayta) must be ingrained from childhood to foster unity among humanity. Beyond statistical data, I've observed that Nepalis prioritize alternative healthcare methods rooted in Eastern philosophy, traditional family structures, and daily spiritual practices. Yoga and meditation, in particular, hold significant importance in their lives.
I commend the initiative of Jeevan Bigyan for organizing a 5001-person (Virat Chakra Vigyan) meditation event at the birthplace of Gautam Buddha in Lumbini, Nepal (March 30-April 5, 2024). Let us lead by example and spread these positive messages worldwide. This technique offers a pathway to quality life, regardless of location.
While beliefs may divide us, the reality of nature unites us. A few words spoken with sincerity hold more power than volumes of accumulated books. Whether at school, work, or in prayer, let us expand our concerns beyond ourselves, our families, and our communities to encompass all living beings.
Once again, let us close our eyes, feel our breath, and attune ourselves to our body and mind. Spread these words without prejudice or stereotypes. This isn't about stopping time but rather gaining awareness of our surroundings with each passing moment.
(Shrwan Khanal is a researcher pursuing his doctoral degree on Social and Public Policy at the University of Helsinki.)
