“For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin – real life. but there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid. at last it dawn on me that these obstacles were my life. this perspective has helped me to see there is no way to happiness. happiness is the way. so treasure every moment you have and remember that time waits for no one. Happiness is a journey, not a destination… – souza”
I love these words, and they feel so relevant to me, especially in the face of all the changes in my life lately. Sometimes I want to work through it, push myself until I crash so I can just get to the next thing. Because maybe after I find an apartment, or move into my new apartment, or start my new job, or get a dresser, or finish school… my real life can start and I’ll be happy. But there will always be a next thing, and a next thing. Happiness really isn’t at the end of the tunnel, it’s what I choose to make of my life now, and now, and now, and now. Can I be content at this very moment, sitting in front of my computer, writing you this note? The answer is yes, totally yes.
I think it’s especially important to remember how we want to live our lives during the holidays. It’s easy to get caught up in the materialism of gift giving, special sales, or the “obligations” of seeing certain family members or friends. But when I think of what’s really important this time of year, it’s about giving and receiving love. In fact, I think that’s what is important to me all the time!
What’s important to you? What helps you stay grounded in that reality when “life” is pulling you elsewhere?
With love,
Samantha