In Korea, there is a proverb that elders used to joke about: 'Even if you are grateful for peace, it doesn't matter if you don't like it.'

Pyeongan Gamsa refers to the governor of Pyeongan Province during the Joseon Dynasty.

Pyongyang was a dohoobu, so the person in charge of Pyongyang was the Pyongyang Busa. Therefore, the expression 'Pyongyang Gamsa' is said to be incorrect.

'Even if you are grateful for peace, it doesn't matter if you don't like it.'

This proverb seems very simple, but upon reflection, it contains insights that connect to human relationships, choices, and attitudes toward life.

In the Joseon era, the position of 'Pyeongan Gamsa' was an authoritative position similar to that of a governor today.

It was a coveted position that came with power and wealth.

However, even regarding that honorable position, the proverb states, "No matter how good that position is, if you don't like it, it is useless." Ultimately, it means that good conditions, good positions, and environments that others envy are meaningless if you do not desire them.

Many moments we encounter in life are similar to this.

For example, let's say you have a friend who works at a large company that everyone wants to join.

Although the salary seems decent and the social status appears enviable, that friend sighs every day after work, saying, 'I really hate this job.' Even if it looks like a Pyeongan Gamsa position to others, if the person does not want it in their heart, it becomes a burden instead.

On the other hand, someone who works at a small company but feels pride and joy in their work finds every day meaningful and fulfilling. This difference is the essence of 'Even if you are grateful for peace, it doesn't matter if you don't like it.'

Moreover, this proverb applies to human relationships as well.

For instance, even if it seems like someone is in a relationship or marriage that everyone envies, if the person involved is not happy, it is of no use.

Conversely, even if it appears ordinary or even lacking to outsiders, if the person is satisfied and happy, that is a truly valuable relationship.

Ultimately, it reminds us that the standard of happiness lies within ourselves, not others.

Nowadays, thanks to social media, it has become too easy to compare ourselves to others. Some people post pictures enjoying luxurious vacations with designer bags, while others showcase high salaries or success stories.

Seeing these things can make us feel pressured, thinking, 'Shouldn't I be in that position too?'

However, not everyone in those positions is happy.

If a position that seems enviable to others is something you dislike in your heart, what does it matter? The truly important thing is to choose what you genuinely love and live a satisfying life.

This proverb also speaks about responsibility and freedom.

Holding onto something we do not want will ultimately lead to regret or unhappiness.

Sometimes, it is wiser to let go and make choices that are true to ourselves, regardless of what others say.

It is as if it speaks of the 'freedom to refuse even the position of Pyeongan Gamsa.'

Rather than clinging to unhappiness due to others' opinions, being honest with ourselves carries much more value.

No matter how good the conditions are, if they do not suit you, they are meaningless, and happiness depends on your own heart, not external standards.

This is a message that is essential for us living in today's fiercely competitive society.