Something I read yesterday stuck with me and early early this am I created my own version. Then I coloured it and organized the side of the fridge around it. It takes me to “my happy”.
I know that I am a visual learner. I am a major list maker. An oft glanced at reminder is a great way for me to reinforce my goals when the day is long or hard or both. Or even if it’s easy this helps focus mindfulness.
If you’ve seen the original version of this you will note I made changes. The last thing I need is a que to work harder; nope I need to work smarter. My body isn’t 31 anymore and I need to listen to what it is telling me. I also need the kick in the ass reminder that I need to make good food choices, stretch faithfully and keep moving because fitness is freedom as we age. I read that the other day and it really resonated with me. Sort of like this post called Younger Next Year.
It’s so important that we challenge our brains and our bodies as we age. I find it quite fascinating that dancing does both those things and am trying to figure out how to incorporate that into my life. Not a usual activity around our house. I think it encourages the love always to shine through which leads to less worry; if only momentarily.
Be happy rings shallow to me. There are lots of days and lots of reasons why “being happy” isn’t all that bloody easy. There are real struggles with mind, body and soul daily. Or perhaps with outside forces such as work or this bloody never ending soul sucking pandemic (ask me how I really feel!) that make being happy feel impossible. But perhaps, one can strive to find a happy place, if only for a thought or a time or a while. Perhaps it’s a memory or a future hope or maybe it’s just that today didn’t have any drama. Whatever it is take that moment and find peace within it.
Bernie
Equipoise Life 
This made me smile. It’s a good reminder to take care of yourself and to be grateful for being here. We only have one life.
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I’m glad it gave you a smile. I am enjoying seeing it. A good reminder to “pack up the troubles in the old kit bag and smile”.
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I tend to believe that happiness is one result of effort. Not the goal of the effort in and of itself, but something that can happen. If happiness results, so be it. But if you don’t find happiness that’s okay too. To always insist of being happy seems unhinged to me, not based in reality.
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Life is messy and someday “being happy” isn’t anywhere near reality but perhaps finding a small space of peace in your mind is achievable. I am glad that you responded (as did Deb) in agreement. Life is so complex isn’t it. I always thought 60 year olds had it all figured out – how little did I know!
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Me too! That’s EXACTLY what I said to my husband the other day. With technological advancements and societal upheavals I feel more like a confused kid, than a competent adult. Was not expecting this at this age!
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You think it should be easier but it doesn’t happen and you keep waiting. More curve balls. Yep. It’s messy…
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Happiness is a state of mind for sure. I still recall the saying I saw when I was in a dentist chair. Change your thoughts and you will change your world. Good project Bernie. Thanks for sharing. Allan
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I remember you mentioning that one before Allan. I think perhaps I need to create a wall hanging for it as well. Thanks for the reminder and yes it was a good project. It helped me focus. Take care Allan.
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In my experience, you just can’t “be happy”. Happiness takes effort. Effort in counting your blessings, living your values, taking responsibility for your life, making changes if needed, and accepting the things you can’t change. It ain’t always easy. But it’s work worth doing.
Deb
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Glad to hear you are on the same page as I am. Happiness isn’t a given and not everyone gets to experience the same levels of it. Your comment sums up the true work necessary. Guess we’ve both been there. Thanks for the wonderfully written words that really speak to me. Take care. Bernie
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