Today is National Happiness Happens Day!
While happiness happens to all of us all the time, today has obviously been set aside with the intent of increasing our mindfulness of the joy and beauty that occurs in our every day lives.
There are two kinds of happiness I think. The kind of unexpected happiness that sort of bowls you over...like winning the lottery, getting a promotion at work, accomplishing a huge goal, or having someone throw you a surprise party. There is also the type which I think is more subtle-the kind I believe this holiday is intended for- the joy we feel when we are quiet and in tune with the world around us. It is often the small things- our children's laughter, a quiet evening snuggled with our spouse, a conversation with a good friend, a walk in the park- that brings us contentment and serenity.
You can also just make a choice to be happy. It is raining today. For many people- especially those who may have had their plans dampened by the gloomy weather- rainy days may not very conducive of happy feelings. You can choose to look at it as a bad omen, or put up an umbrella and enjoy the refreshing scent of wet earth and the uncrowded spaces outdoors created because everyone else is staying in.
Finally, you can create some happiness for yourself by causing happiness to happen for others. Take a moment today to do something nice for another person. Pay for the coffee of the person behind you, let someone go in front of you in line at the store, make cookies with your children, or give you spouse a nice massage. Giving happiness doubles it!
Happy Happiness Happens Day!
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