what do you see as good, pure and positive in your life?

"Silent night...holy night...all is calm...all is bright. Snow is gently falling, there is no wind. Quietly, three deer step into the yard, searching for whatever tidbits the birds knocked out of the feeder. They then just as quietly amble on, heading into the yard next door where they know corn has been tossed out for them. A bunny rabbit then scampers into the yard, also searching for whatever the deer may have left behind. Again, there is no wind...you can truly hear the sounds of silence."
This is what I woke up to at 5 am today.

Many people feel that to win the lottery will bring them happiness. Others think that a new car, a different job or a new house will do the same. I call it "destination addiction." This is the yearning that to have "something" will ultimately be THE answer to all of your problems. "If only...if only...if only..." does that sound familiar? The best way to cure that is to understand that it isn't material wealth that will make you happy. It isn't about going "someplace" or doing "anything" or winning "something" other than just being in the moment. Feeling gratitude for all of the small things in life that have brought you to "here," is what we should focus on. That can be having friends and family who love you. It can be your health-even if it isn't the best of health, you're still here, right? It can be anything, but to truly enjoy it, it must already be a reality for you. Dreams are wonderful, yes, but to occupy oneself on just dreams...on that "if only...one day" stuff can set you up for disappointment. To truly be happy, it is best to give away happiness. It returns to you, oh yes, it does! You truly reap what you sow. If you're a grumpy person, who would want to be around you, correct? Happy people beget happy people. Optimism begets more optimism. Those who see the glass as half full generally have a healthier outlook in life than those who constantly see the worst in anything that comes their way. The news on TV that we are pelted with every day is bad enough...why not focus on something good, pure and positive instead?

 I, for one, smile at others, whether it is in the grocery line, at the bank or even while driving. Does it help them? I wouldn't know, but I do know that I sure feel better for doing it. Just as with the scene of the deer outside my window, I look for reasons to feel grateful. The peace that I have deep within me makes it all worthwhile.

How about you? Look for reasons to feel gratitude today. Small blessings become big blessings...even if it's just a bird on your windowsill...or a sweet smelling flower...or ...or...
You get the idea!