“The Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself!” –Benjamin Franklin

Of course Franklin knew these words were directly in the Declaration of Independence, which was upheld by the United States Constitution. He helped draft both of them. But the meaning of the direct words is vouchsafed by our Constitution.

And he was a printer by trade, so he was careful with words. So he knew what he was saying. That is, that the Constitution protects you unalienable rights to pursue happiness, you still must pursue it and “catch it!” It’s all up to you.

I know that makes you feel better already. Peanuts comic strip kinda sums it up this way:

Charlie Brown visits Lucy in her psychiatric office (her table with a sign above it which reads: “The doctor is ‘in’”). Charlie Brown says: “You know, I feel better already!”

In the next frame with Lucy leaning on her elbows, Charlie adds: “You must use very modern methods. . .”

Lucy responds: “Oh, yes . . . absolutely the latest techniques . . .”

Charlie Brown leaves and Lucy, with that ‘look’ on her face thinks, “The Declaration of Independence give you the right to pursue happiness. But, like a cold, you have to catch it!”

(Okay, maybe I made some of that up.)