A new blog to contain answers to prompts |
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Since my old blog "Everyday Canvas " |
| Prompt: Let this affirmation inspire you-- You can't find happiness in material things. Happiness comes from discovering--- it's your blog, have fun. -------- Just a while ago, I noticed a salamander on the porch's screen, one that must have arrived from Mexico since it was as big as a mouse and it had a redhead, and it was shaking that red head as it was calling out to, probably, a mate. Watching it was fun. I also noticed my own paying attention to that salamander. This was a little discovery, unforced, small, and surprising. So, things like that, when I notice them, do make me feel happy, outward and inward. What makes me happy, at times, starts with some discovery, especially when I am paying attention to life around me. Plus, such little discoveries ease off what I can't let go, say an approaching doctor's visit, for example. They also get my attention away from myself, reminding me that some weights I carry aren't important or necessary. They remind me of my own resilience since I made it through, up to this old age, and they offer me a few smiles rooted in what I hope is self-trust. Then, to watch that salamander, I had to stand still at the door, even though I had things to do. I mean, if only for a few moments, I gave myself permission to be, to stay without moving, with no rush. And I noticed that my stillness had its own kind of happiness. As such, happiness doesn't always come from big achievements. Tiny things, a few words, or seeing something beautiful can be enough to feel joy, at least for the moment. I think this has to do with wonder and discovering awe, in a childlike way. I don't search bliss in distant things my happiness is in wonder and laughs and of letting go of burdens I can no longer brave or stand but in a salamander, a spark of wonder, and when I let go of hushed pains, and in my strength, and in laughs I share without intent or the kindness of a friend, in a moment of life, slipping blessings to my hand. |