Reflection
There’s been some debate whether the opening quote is a Buddha quote, but regardless of whether it is or not, I really like it and agree with it.
I’ve always been under the impression that chasing happiness is a waste of time because happiness depends on what happens to us.
As my years on earth grow in numbers, I’m figuring out that happiness is not dependent upon what happens to us as much as it depends on how we respond to what happens to us.
For instance, a couple of days ago, I finally received my “repaired” riding lawnmower. But, unfortunately, it took eight looong weeks for it to get repaired.
The delay in getting it fixed was partly due to COVID-related parts shortages but mostly due to a repairman taking on too much work.
The mower worked for approximately fifteen minutes. 🙁
The story gets better…
The place where I had my lawnmower repaired was a half-hour away, so I took Jordan to assist me in picking it up.
As I’ve alluded to in previous writings–Jordan likes to go on adventures, especially when it involves riding in my truck.
Due to the mower breaking down a second time, we had to make a return trip to the repairman’s shop…and yes, I know the definition of insanity. 🙂
All told, Jordan got to spend over two hours in my truck, and much to his delight, he was able to totally “untrash” my glove box. He even found an open pack of stale Oreos in which he was happily able to cram one of them into his mouth before I figured out what was going on.
Facts
Jordan’s unawareness of the mess I was handling, coupled with his ability to be happy in all situations–tempered my anger.
In essence, Jordan transferred his happiness to me.
Another review of Buddha’s quote tells me…
- Experiencing happiness in my life takes place when I’m not purely focused on getting everything I want.
- Experiencing happiness in my life takes place when it’s not about me.
Hmm…with all of that being said, happiness is inside of us all the time…Jordan is living proof.
Ecclesiastes 3:12, “I perceived that there is nothing better for them than to be joyful and to do good as long as they live;” (ESV)
P.E.A.C.E.
Jay@EagleLaunch.com
