What is contentment?

Contentment is a warm and cozy feeling of satisfaction. There is no fear or anxiety; just a steady flow of knowing that even though things aren’t perfect, it’s okay. Everything will be alright. Contentment is having a sense of stability in the back of your mind, always there to reassure. It is not a feeling of constant elation, but rather a reasonable appreciation for the things that you have, grateful for what you love. It is deeply present while sitting on the couch with a blanket wrapped around your shoulders, taking comfort in the familiarity of your surroundings and knowing that a loved one is puttering around somewhere in the house. It is hearing your favorite music softly playing in the background and smelling hot soup boiling in the kitchen. Contentment is an internal sense of peace. And in some ways it is even better than extravagent joy, which always seems to be fleeting.