Recently, I received an email from a dear friend, who commented that my blog lately is sounding like I am an unhappy curmudgeon. He then questioned why I was not more happy.
Happiness - that elusive, often temporary state of great pleasure, contentment, elation and optimism. I thought about his comment and reflected - in general, am I happy? The answer is an unequivocal YES!
Sadly, it is so easy to get caught up with and focus on the various annoyances in life rather than all that is positive and going well for us. Like the stone in the shoe - it sure annoys and makes us unhappy with its presence but the normal absence of the stone does not evoke a positive and happy response.
Actually, I currently am experiencing one of the happiness times of my life. At the risk of sounding self elating, am going to mention some reasons why.
Last March, I retired from full time employment after many, many years working for 'the man". So time is now my own, offering me the opportunity to pursue various self interest activities. Fortunately, my monthly retirement stipend is adequate enough that I don't have to work as a WalMart greeter or some other mundane job. I have moved back to Philadelphia, a city that I love and that has a great variety of inner city amenities. I have a great affordable apartment in a well maintained building that provides a pool, gym, library, computer room, parking facilities, and a helpful and courteous staff. Great neighbors and have met many friendly residents within the area. Have easy access to great public transportation of all types. Wonderful shopping is within easy walking distance including Trader Joes, Whole Food, Wine/Beer Outlet plus book, antique, toy stores and great restaurants. Also, to be mentioned are the theaters, movies, concerts, libraries and social "watering holes". Recently, had a big scare when I was diagnosed with CLL (Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia) but then got some good news that it was in the very early stages, was non-aggressive and should not require treatment for several years. Along the medical lines, am scheduled for a knee replacement next month so soon can resume being a dancing fool. Then, just yesterday was informed that I had been accepted at Union Theological Seminary where I can pursue studies and hopefully realize ordination as a Unitarian minister. Last, but most importantly all my dear personal friends who have extented their love and support these many years - a true font of great happiness for me.
In conclusion, I want to Thank You, David for pointing out my recent negativism and while I can't promise never to moan and groan again, I will try to focus and blog more on the positive aspects of my life.
Curmudgeon - Hum Bug!
1 comment:
A little grumbling now and then would be appreciated. After all, working with you, I became quite accustomed to hearing the occasional ggrrr (or maybe, that was your inner ThirstyBear speaking?!)
On a serious note, it's good to hear of your relative happiness. I'm going through a hangover funk of holiday family strife that just won't go away....talk about a stone in the shoe. Staying positive can be tough at times, but as you point out, there are so many more things in our lives that we can focus on that help overshadow the negative.
So, when are we getting together for that beer? Oh, and of which "beer outlet" do you speak? :)
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