“I’d always believed that a life of quality, enjoyment, and wisdom were my human birthright and would be automatically bestowed upon me as time passed. I never suspected that I would have to learn how to live - that there were specific disciplines and ways of seeing the world I had to master before I could awaken to a simple, happy, uncomplicated life.”
-Dan Millman
Recently, I read an article about 12 things that Happy People do differently than the rest of us. These things are called “Happiness Tips”. It’s an interesting list, but I’m also not sure I agree with all of them and I am not sure it is inclusive of some very other important “Happiness Tips”.
I decided to write down what I think, one tip at a time. I serve this up to you to think about your own reactions and, hopefully, start a dialogue.
Tip Number 1 Express gratitude. –
This is something I usually do very well. But then, I have so much to be grateful for. As I type this, I am on my bed with several dogs and cats cuddling up to me. I am well-fed and can afford my medicines. I own the roof over my head and if this isn’t the fanciest place in the world, well, who cares. It’s home and I love it.
Yes, Gratitude is very important. To be happy, you have to appreciate what you have. It’s almost the definition of what it means to be happy. I don’t understand how you can be happy if you are not grateful.
So what do you think?
This is a very inspiring post, dear. :)
ReplyDeleteFighting againts depression I tried everything that could make me feel better without having to swallow pills. When I was very young I fell in love with magic, witchcraft and the Celtic history. Then I became a crystal healer and started meditation and visualization. I tried shamanism, the Goddess path and many other things. I'm a catholic only in the papers, because I've never been a believer. I've always been looking for my true self instead of a god. Now, after many years I have realised that I don't need to look for happiness outside, but I've to search for it inside myself and my life.
Gratitute may be the first step. :)
Ah BlackPumpkin, I am so glad to hear from you again! I always look foreward to your comments.
ReplyDeleteI too have battled depression. I do have to take a pill, but I am lucky, because the pill merely helps me to be who I really am.
Gratitude has become so very important to me, especially since I am now disabled. Without gratitude and optimism, I could not continue my life. But gratitude makes life so very good. And I have so much to be grateful for. I am especially grateful for the chance to meet folks like you and share ideas.
Yeah, dear. This is a special thing to be grateful for. :))
ReplyDeleteI think I experience as much joy as I do is because I am so grateful. It's easy to get side tracked, though. They are like little negative excursions off the path. I'm always glad to find my way back on. :)
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