Q: In what sense is happiness or bliss [ananda] our real nature?

~ by Sri Ramana Maharshi

A: Perfect bliss is Brahman. Perfect peace is of the Self. That

alone exists and is consciousness. That which is called happiness

is only the nature of Self; Self is not other than perfect happiness.

That which is called happiness alone exists. Knowing that fact and

abiding in the state of Self, enjoy bliss eternally.

If a man thinks that his happiness is due to external causes and

his possessions, it is reasonable to conclude that his happiness

must increase with the increase of possessions and diminish in

proportion to their diminution. Therefore if he is devoid of

possessions, his happiness should be nil. What is the real

experience of man? Does it conform to this view?

In deep sleep man is devoid of possessions, including his own

body. Instead of being unhappy he is quite happy. Everyone desires

to sleep soundly. The conclusion is that happiness is inherent in

man and is not due to external causes. One must realize the Self in

order to open the store of unalloyed happiness.

~ by Sri Ramana Maharshi from his book "Be As You Are"