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Printed from https://www.writing.com/main/profile/blog/joycag/day/11-21-2025
by Joy Author IconMail Icon
Rated: 18+ · Book · Writing · #2326194

A new blog to contain answers to prompts

Since my old blog "Everyday Canvas Open in new Window. became overfilled, here's a new one. This new blog item will continue answering prompts, the same as the old one.


Cool water cascading to low ground
To spread good will and hope all around.


image for blog
November 21, 2025 at 2:27pm
November 21, 2025 at 2:27pm
#1102099
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.




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Printed from https://www.writing.com/main/profile/blog/joycag/day/11-21-2025