Happiness

        Happiness is an elusive thing, somewhat like a butterfly. It looks so pretty, it seems to be within reach, and then it often is quickly gone. When we begin a new year or a new endeavor we have great anticipation as to something different, which may seem obvious, but we think of it as a totally new experience. When you think of it, each day of living is a new endeavor, and yet we take into that new beginning the past patterns and behaviors and characteristics of the day before, the month before, the years before. It is difficult to think of beginning a new day in a new way. How then can we start out 'new', how can we look at life in such a way that it is through new eyes or new attitudes? Some cannot because they refuse to entertain the idea of being different. It is too comfortable in the pattern they are in and so there is no desire to change. Try desire, intent, and if not a happy outlook, an outlook of 'newness', of trying to experience the day and the people and all of a life in a new way.

        Happiness comes to people in small ways and occasionally in large ways. It is truly a wonderful feeling, but at its highest it cannot be maintained with that frequency or energy level, so we must find a balance point or level for happiness - that which makes for contentment or satisfaction, that which causes us to move forward, to learn, to feel that we are expanding the Self in a progressive or meaningful way. If we look at happiness as a calmer experience than that which leaves us elated, then we can find many small things that give us happiness. Try listing a few things, very, very common things, that make you content each day. Concentrate on those things when times are rough or the day is not going well. Try being less demanding of expectations for yourself and for others. Trying is what counts. Look to new endeavors if you are inclined and if not, then find satisfaction in those you currently are involved with and be at ease with them.

        Get outside of self and give, not just materially, but give of Self, perhaps it's your presence which calms another, or your intelligence, or your humor, or any of many, many characteristics you may have. Share and reach out, communicate well with that which is around you. Listen well, love well, and you will grow in understanding and your interpretation of what happiness is to you.