Now more than ever I truly realise that we are each responsible for our own happiness. There can be very sad times and hardship, and simply being a cheery person cannot avoid these circumstances, but how resilient we are very much depends on our state of mind.
When we look for the negative things in life, nitpick, find fault in, and judge others, it is harder to be happy. I know this from experience. But when we drop the judgement, look for the good in life, are grateful for everything we have and look forward to each day as a chance for a new start, miracles seem to occur. We feel happy for no reason. Life is brighter. People are friendlier. The trees are greener! And it all starts with us.
We had recent family sadness: my father-in-law Peter passed away in April. He was one of the most enthusiastic people I have ever met. His smile was 1,000 watts and he was always positive. His funeral was so packed there were people standing at the back.
Peter moved here from the UK as a young man and forged a life for himself in a new country, was successful in his chosen career as an engineer (just like my dad, who was an engineer too) and built a beautiful life for himself and his family. If he hadn’t wanted to see the world as a merchant navy man my husband Paul wouldn’t exist, and I am so grateful that he does!
I knew Peter for eighteen years, and cannot remember a time when he was grumpy. He truly was a lesson in how to live life well, and with gusto. This wasn’t supposed to be a eulogy, but more a little reminder to live life, be happy, and appreciate every moment you are given. I know I do, every single day.
Yes, sometimes I’m not my best self and can be thoughtless or a Little Miss, but the more I practice looking on the bright side of life, the more I can appreciate. The more you do it, the easier it gets.
Sending you a big smile and wishing you a lovely weekend!
xx Fiona
PS. my books are now available as paperbacks in Australia through Amazon Australia - actually printed in Australia! This means a huge saving on shipping - yay!
When we look for the negative things in life, nitpick, find fault in, and judge others, it is harder to be happy. I know this from experience. But when we drop the judgement, look for the good in life, are grateful for everything we have and look forward to each day as a chance for a new start, miracles seem to occur. We feel happy for no reason. Life is brighter. People are friendlier. The trees are greener! And it all starts with us.
We had recent family sadness: my father-in-law Peter passed away in April. He was one of the most enthusiastic people I have ever met. His smile was 1,000 watts and he was always positive. His funeral was so packed there were people standing at the back.
Peter moved here from the UK as a young man and forged a life for himself in a new country, was successful in his chosen career as an engineer (just like my dad, who was an engineer too) and built a beautiful life for himself and his family. If he hadn’t wanted to see the world as a merchant navy man my husband Paul wouldn’t exist, and I am so grateful that he does!
I knew Peter for eighteen years, and cannot remember a time when he was grumpy. He truly was a lesson in how to live life well, and with gusto. This wasn’t supposed to be a eulogy, but more a little reminder to live life, be happy, and appreciate every moment you are given. I know I do, every single day.
Yes, sometimes I’m not my best self and can be thoughtless or a Little Miss, but the more I practice looking on the bright side of life, the more I can appreciate. The more you do it, the easier it gets.
Sending you a big smile and wishing you a lovely weekend!
xx Fiona
PS. my books are now available as paperbacks in Australia through Amazon Australia - actually printed in Australia! This means a huge saving on shipping - yay!
