Is happiness a possibility?
Is there a secret formula for happiness?
Are we all really happy with our lives?
I was in Lebanon thirteen years ago and have had a decade-long career in journalism, modelling, and acting.
I then became a well-known media personality and magazine marketer, allowing me to travel the world as a glitterati.
I was not, however, born into a well-connected family or gifted with a golden spoon. In contrast, I was never pushed to follow my ambitions, and I talked with a strong Lebanese accent as an Armenian.
While an accent is often welcomed in the show industry in the west, it acts as a crucial barrier to success in Lebanon.
I was the family’s black sheep, yet it did not affect my fascinating career. Nonetheless, my moral values had been eclipsed by the trappings of my stardom.
I overcame many obstacles, despite the challenges I encountered along the way. I’ve been mocked, rejected, humiliated, bullied, exploited, defamed, physically threatened, and even raped.
Nonetheless, I was unhappy at my peak of success.
Despite my ties to influential individuals, I was always worried.
Despite a comfortable salary, I was unhappy.
How many of you have experienced dissatisfaction?
How many of you have experienced excruciating inner pain?
I concealed my authentic self and my sorrow behind a mask that trampled on values I previously held dear, afraid not of Covid19’s judgements but of society’s.
Everything I had was something I want in life, yet they fell short of fulfilling my requirements.
I found happiness in a new life in Canada with someone who loves me who had nothing to offer me but his heart.
Like me, I’m guessing that many of you struggle with a variety of issues in your life: diseases, family, money, and other concerns.
How many of you have succeeded in finding happiness?
Have you noticed that happiness is a state of mind, not something external to you?
Despite certain things missing in my life, now I am very happy.
I just released my debut novel, “Masks,” based on actual events. It won two awards; I was recognized in Canada as Lebanon’s first female public personality as an award-winning novelist who was able to take the readers on a journey where the uncensored reality of women treated is told, especially behind the hidden traps within the glamorous circles of fame and fortune in Lebanon and the Arab world.
While I am denied motherhood, dealing with my ADHD & OCD issues, I was still able to write a book from my basement in my fourth language in a new country. Imagine how much you are capable of accomplishing in your life.
Once the muscles of our souls are grown, our willpower is unbreakable.
Mistakes and sins in the past will not define you. It will mold you into a courageous and happy person through courage, compassion, and resilience.
Confront your fears, just as I did, since everyone of you is significantly more than you believe.
My recipe is gratitude for the blessings in my life.
Today, as an author, motivational speaker, and life and health coach, my life experiences inspire many people.
Do I meet the criteria to be called a Marvel character?
No way!
I simply discovered a way to give my life a purpose to be happy; I help others exchange their gratitude and thankfulness.
It brings me happiness.
Now, take a minute to think about all the blessings bestowed upon you by the almighty power.
How many gifts are you capable of offering?
How many lives are you capable of changing?
Nataly Restokian
