What Happiness Is

Happiness Is

eating when you're hungry and not punishing yourself because you ate.

moving.  Running, walking, swimming, riding a bike, dancing.  Just moving.

reading a book and getting lost in that book, especially if it's raining outside.

doing something hard and doing it well.

staying close to people who truly care about you.

letting go of things you cannot control and finally admitting to yourself that you did all you could.

extracting yourself from a difficult, painful situation and trusting God to sort it out.

laughing long and loud and not caring if you snort a little.

learning something new everyday, challenging your mind and reaching for what you thought was an impossible dream.

sleeping in.

watching your children play.

putting time and thought into a carefully planned meal, especially if you plan on serving it to someone other than yourself.  And especially if there's music on while you cook it.

not worrying about how old you are, but about how well you are living.

being completely and unapologetically yourself.

avoiding negativity.  Avoiding people who spout negativity.  Avoiding depressing books, movies, and angst ridden music.  Keeping sadness and despair out of your life while seeking out things and people that truly uplift you.

forgiving those who wronged you.

hoping that those who wronged you can find happiness also.

tilting your face up to the sun with your eyes closed and breathing.

growing things.

being honest.  Being honest with yourself, with your loved ones, with everyone you deal with.

doing all the laundry before the weekend.

watching a spooky show with your best friend.

paying off bills.

driving with music on.  Good music.

Singing.  In the shower.

taking a walk in the evening and smelling good things, and hearing people talk and music drift through the air.

petting a tame lizard.

creating.

knowing who you are, completely, unequivocally, and what you're capable of.

praying and knowing that God is listening.