I’ve made a conscious decision to be happy. To do whatever it takes to see happiness and experience it and share it. Even when things are not going as planned, I do my best to see the light, and see what will come, to liven happiness, despite the other emotions that bring me down. And to know that things will all fall into place, with my optimism and joy…
“If we are peaceful, if we are happy
we can blossom like a flower,
and everyone in our family,
our entire society, will benefit from our peace.”
You need to read this book by Thich Nhat Hanh. Yogi, religious person, spiritual ganster, antithesis, this book is for you. So many subtle life 
lessons. It’s short, it’s a quick read, but it’s powerful. I picked this book up randomly from my acupuncturist’s office and decided to take it home and delve more into it. Even my doctor noticed I was reading it and commented on what an excellent book this is. This book is about finding peace with in yourself, it brings in Buddhism ideas, and talks about the power of meditation. For those that seek enlightenment, or are curious about all this ‘divine light’ stuff, pick it up. JkJk. But seriously, it’s worth your time to read it, and you can probably finish it in one sitting. I think I may even reread it this weekend. This book connects the suffering life brings, with the value of breathe, and imposes it with the power of peace. It helps awaken, to be more at peace. There is nothing more I can say to explain the read, go check it out and explore it for yourself! Live in the present, reconnect, end your suffering, breathe, and find peace with your mind, and peace with yourself.
This passage from the Introduction sums it up pretty well~
“Through his being and his words, Thich Nhat Hanh invties us into the reality of the present. Because he is a poet, his language has beauty, intimacy, and rich texture that illuminate the mind. Because he is courageous, he willingly pierces our great heart of compassion, so that we can bow to burning huts and sea pirates, to the sorrows of the world and those who cause sorrows. Because he is wise, his simple words speak to the most obvious Dharma and to the truly profound levels of Buddha’s awakening, all at one time. In doing so, he simultaneously unites the great Buddhist schools..Hanh has helped us to see the depths of dependent origination in a flower. In the midst of it all he has taught us to breathe, to smile, to live with a free heart. And most importantly, in our troubled world, he makes us no false division between inner awakening and engaged compassion. TO his eye, like his spiritual ancestor Mahatma Gandhi, ever being matters, everything is sacred…” [Jack Kornfield]
“Aware that life is available only in the present moment and that is it possible to live happily in the here and now, we are committed to training ourselves to live deeply each moment of daily life. We will try not to lose ourselves in dispersion or be carried away by regrets about the past, worries about the future, or craving, anger, or jealousy in the present. We will practice mindful breathing to come back to what is happening in the present moment. We are determined to learn the art of mindful living by touching the wondrous, refreshing, and healing elements that are inside and around us, and bu nourishing seeds of joy, peace, love, and understanding in ourselves, thus facilitating the world of transformation and healing in our consciousness.”
GO read it.
WOW I’ve had one of the best weekends of my life! I spent this past Easter weekend celebrating energy with some fine yogis and learning Reiki (more to come about that). It was just what I needed for where I’m at right now. I’m so lucky I got to spend two glorious days and a night with such loving individuals.Such a magical experience.
Spring is the season of new beginnings….set your intentions, and believe…
On another note, this song popped into my head Saturday afternoon while in the workshop, and would not go away. Then when I got into my car to drive away, it was playing on the radio. Oddly enough, when I got into the car the next day to drive to the workshop, it was playing again…..Keep you eyes open, ya never know what possibilities may come forth 🙂
Another song I’ve heard frequently, so catchy, good message
HAVE YOU FOUND THE JOY IN YOUR LIFE?
A calm night in, after turning down three different invites to go out, I decided to stay home and hang out with me, myself, and my kitty. Ha. I randomly selected the movie, The Bucket List to watch from my small collection of dvds. I’m not a TV or really a movie person, and my sister can tell you, how I don’t pay attention and can’t just sit and focus. Obviously, I was multitasking. Although one of my favorite movies, I don’t watch it that much, but every time I do I feel a sense of renewal and appreciation. So many life lessons in the movie, ending with a moving scene and commentary and the classic John Mayer song, ‘Say what you need to say’, which always brings me to tears. Besides that they are living, while dying, exploring the world, traveling, helping themselves first, living carefree, and being present, the best take away of all is a simple reminder…Have you found the joy in your life? It’s a friendly reminder that at any point in your life, you can do anything, you can change things, and at anytime, dream the impossible, do the impossible, go be, let the waters take you…
The Bucket List Quotes
“Dear Edward, I’ve gone back and forth the last few days……trying to decide whether or not I should even write this.In the end, I realized I would regret it if I didn’t……so here goes.I know the last time we saw each other……we weren’t exactly hitting the sweetest notes. It certainly wasn’t the way I wanted the trip to end. I suppose I’m responsible, and for that I’m sorry. But, in all honesty, if I had the chance, I’d do it again. Virginia said I left a stranger and came back a husband. I owe that to you. There’s no way I can repay you for all you’ve done for me……so rather than try, I’m Just going to ask you to do something else for me. Find the Joy in your life. You once said you’re not everyone. Well, that’s true. You’re certainly not everyone. But everyone is everyone. My pastor always says:” Our lives are streams……flowing into the same river……towards whatever heaven lies in the mist beyond the falls. Find the joy in your life, Edward. My dear friend, close your eyes and let the waters take you home. “
“I believe that you measure yourself by the people that measure themselves by you.”
“You know, the ancient Egyptians had a beautiful belief about death. When their souls got to the entrance to heaven, the guards asked two questions. Their answers determined whether they were able to enter or not. ‘Have you found joy in your life?’ ‘Has your life brought joy to others?’”
“If life has taught me anything it’s that 95% of the people are always wrong.”
” You only live once, so why not die with style?”
“We live, we die, and the wheels on the bus go round and round”
“The simplest thing is… I loved him. And I miss him. Carter and I saw the world together. Which is amazing… When you think that only three months ago, we were complete strangers! I hope that it doesn’t sound selfish of me but… the last months of his life were the best months of mine. He saved my life… And he knew it before I did.”
GO Live. Be Bright. Find YOUR Joy.
“Our best work, our finest moments, our joy happen when we’re centered, listening to and trusting ourselves, allowing our hearts and souls to guide us. They happen when we allow ourselves to fully, completely, and in love, be who we are…Stay open. Keep loving yourself. Know you are a vital part of a living universe. Watch how much better, how much kinder life is, as your grow in peace and harmony with yourself. See how much more love is mirrored in the universe since you committed to loving yourself.”
[Melody Beattie]
I love the Beatles. I love John Lennon. One of my favorite songs is “Watching the Wheels.” Totally relates to what’s going on. Here is a great cover, by another great artist, Matisyahu ~
Or the original-
Living Everyday Wonderful 