Happiness – Appreciate what you have

So much happening in the world to make us miserable. Wars and uncertainty. It is enough to make a grumpy person even grumpier.

However, I am a glass half full person. I can’t understand why so many people carry on about their lot.

When I was young I wanted to be part of the crowd. If I didn’t have a date on a Saturday night I was devastated.  But wanting to be accepted and following my peers was quite stressful. Now at age 65 I have a lovely group of friends and I don’t need to get drunk or act the fool to keep them. Actually if I got drunk and did some of those things I did in my youth (I cringe when I remember), I would have no friends left.  Now I listen to my friends, keep in contact, and know they are part of my life and not the revolving door of my youth.

Now for money, so many people complain about it. Say for instance you are surviving on a very limited income. Many are in the same boat. But you do have a car, can put petrol in it, have clothes on your back, a roof over your head and even though you can’t afford steak you do eat. There is no point in complaining. It will fall on deaf ears. Write a letter to your local member or join an activist group.  You have to look outside the square. I can’t afford a car so I bus it everywhere or team up with a mate and offer to pay for some petrol.  If you look back to the depression years in Australia that is when people really struggled, not just to buy necessities but to waive off starvation. I may sound haughty but I do get fed up with people whining about their lot, when I am no better off than them. So I intend to surround myself with happy people. Not everything costs, look around at the beauty in your area. I suggest looking at activities for seniors which usually don’t cost a lot.

This blog is not for those suffering an illness. I can empathise with you and understand that your illness or ailment causes suffering and that you may not be happy. Constant pain would make anyone grumpy.

Volunteering is a great equalizer. When you see people much less fortunate than yourself you appreciate what you have. Think about what you can bring to the equation, what talents you have that you may be able to share with others. If you are a carer, you may be able to take that person along.

Some say they are lonely and that is why they are grumpy. Smile at strangers. Introduce yourself to your neighbor and invite them in for a cup of tea. They don’t have to be the same age. Young people can be delightful. Join a group. Laugh, it is catching. Get a pet – they make everyone happy. Plus if it is a dog and you walk it, you will meet people along the way and get exercise at the same time – a win/win situation. I realise some are happy in their own company and don’t need friends. This is for those who do need company.

I don’t let things get me down now. I’ve had ups and downs all my life. If I am feeling miserable I think of the things I am grateful for. The thing is not to dwell on the bad and appreciate the good.

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