Happiness: A Few Tips
We all are the recipients of “sound bites,” some of more value than others. One statement I heard recently is that people are not happy because they have everything. They are happy because they are grateful for what they already have.
I’ve known many people who live in the future. They live for the time “when we get a bigger house,” “when the kids are all grown up,” or “when the family has more income.” By placing qualifications on what will make them happy and when they will be happy, they are cheating themselves out of the essence of living in the present tense. In a nutshell, perhaps some people need to learn that “doing” is more important than “having.”
It seems that every television show we watch, that deals with the dynamics of human relationships, tries to give advice on how to be healthier, how to maximize our enjoyment of life, and how to live longer. Personally, I don’t think length of life is such a great goal. After knowing what goes on in nursing homes, they don’t seem like such a terrific place to live, although if I had to live there, I’d adjust just fine, I’m sure.
The key to happiness is meaningful work. My love of textiles has provided me with endless amusement, satisfaction at my own constant learning and discoveries, and a feeling that I am doing something useful when I can provide help, or answers, for others. I suppose the feeling that I am contributing significantly to the study of quilt history provides a certain elation. Find out what work you can do that makes you feel joy!
Be happy today! Be happy because you choose to count your blessings, rather than the raindrops, or the snowflakes, as the case may be. Happiness is a mindset, and a do-able task. Notice when you are most happy. You will usually find joy that when you are engaged in work is the best part of the day. Happiness is a feeling that creeps up on you, and even if you notice your sunny outlook for only a moment, your day will be improved. Smile and the world smiles with you. Cry and you cry alone.
Wishing you rainbows,
Patricia Cummings
