Happiness 101

"There is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way."
Dan Millman

It was an "AHA moment" to me when I read the story of the optimistic little boy who, when confronted with a room full of horse manure, dove right in, exclaiming, “With all this manure, there’s got to be a pony in here somewhere!” Although I don’t think I want to hug him right now, I think the little fellow’s got it right.

Since then, I decided that no matter how big a pile of “manure” life dumps in my path, looking for the pony is the best response. Even if there is no pony, digging in with enthusiasm is better for us than being burdened with reluctance and resentment. Guess what? the pony is always there, but we miss it because we’re not looking for it.

Happiness is not an activity but an attitude. If you can laugh at yourself, your failures, mistakes, problems and life circumstances, it will make living through them much much easier.

Our attitude may be the only thing in life over which we have total control. If we cultivate an attitude of willingness to be light and playful, to appreciate all the absurdities swirling around us all the time and to laugh whenever we can, we have done our part

Some people are really fun to be around. They see life as an opportunity to learn about themselves and others. They don't whine, complain or blame others. They take full responsibility for their own pleasure. They can have fun when they are alone, and they can have fun in the presence of total strangers. They are fun people. I decided to join the club and become one of them. How about you? Welcome abroad!