Joy

We, Americans, in particular take so much for granted that we forget how to fee l. We forget how to revel in emotions but rather seek to acquire things. It’s not that we can’t or don’t want to feel things, we simply cause ourselves to be perpetually busy. In or busy state we fail to make time in our schedules for feeling, for being human! Simply stated and loudly proclaimed, this is a grave oversight. But wait, don’t hesitate to call a name at the rude driver that cuts us off or the boss that is never happy. But then, that’s venting, not really feeling. So we vent to reduce stress but fail to go the extra step to enjoy the moment. We neglect to take a moment and relish happiness, joy and love. Each of these feelings is so overwhelming wonderful that you must ponder why we don’t search and seek them out. Perhaps it’s the fear that they won’t persist. Should we than try harder to make these things happen? No, is the resounding answer. These moments happen all the time but we fail to take notice. Further we fail to acknowledge a smile with a smile. We fail to allow these feeling to persist and multiple. Humbug you say! I think not, recall the day. Remember the person that held the elevator, that picked up the dropped item, that smiled because you passed, that bought you lunch. Subtle events, yes indeed, but they are very meaningful because they portray the essence of mankind. They reflect the goodness and caring that we have forgotten to share. We have become a fast paced culture focused on things not feelings. When a negative thing occurs it tends to be intense and remembered. But our pace excludes us from noticing all the great moments. What’s curious is that most of the negative events are accidental. Being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Most of these events are not purposeful or malicious things cast upon us by others, yet they get the notice. This hurried pace causes people to act without thought. Things happen and we react. On the other hand all the positive actions that people take are quite purposeful and intentional, further reinforcement of the positive nature of man. Recall one of those irritating times and relive the anger. It’s not generally easy to recreate that emotion. Now recall a pleasant event and feel the glow engulf you as you smile. Seems simple doesn’t it. Shift our focus to the positive and life will be positive. This is an amazing reward for such little effort. And all it takes is a kindly reminder. Acknowledge all those great moments in life and smile, because all the money in the world cannot buy a minute of expired time. Yet you can enjoy that time for free.