What does it take to be happy?
There was a report on the news last night that actually answered that question. It came as no surprise, though, to discover the suggestions: be grateful, offer praise, and reflect.
I have, throughout this cancer journey, found great relief in that I can find what’s “right” in my life. I don’t know if this is something my parents taught me – or something I learned in the classroom as a teacher to not just survive the bad days, but thrive. Whatever the origin, I am grateful that I have this mindset.
Once again, I am reminded of my parents’ words to me, “Stacey, you need to count your blessings”.
This is something I heard over and over again. So – I do.
It is too painful to focus on the negatives and it only serves to dig me into a deeper hole.
Imagine – if happiness could be achieved by simply changing a thought pattern?
Actually, it makes sense.
The brain is such an amazing organ. It can actually re-wire itself to form new neural pathways. It’s almost like the brain has a mind of its own. And thinking patterns that most often used are the ones that are more closely fused. The patterns become “entrenched”. In following, then, the more often a person is grateful, the easier it becomes to be grateful. On the other hand, the more often a person is negative, the easier it becomes to be negative.
It snowed again this morning. In fact, there is a blizzard happening outside my window as I write this post. It is April 23rd. The robins are a bit snow-struck. The school busses are late. Sigh. I am being put to the test.
So, I need to put my money where my mouth is. Here it goes. I am grateful that –
1. I have a roof over my head
2. I have food in my belly and;
3. I have an ability to be able to stay home from work.
Yes. There. Happy?
Now – let me just check on how late those school busses are running!
I assure that changing thought patterns really works. For many years I had recurring depression from things that happened in my life – then someone showed me how to change the messages I was giving myself, and the change was amazing…
Wow – what a great application and so very happy you could use that process to change your – well – life, for the better.
We must indeed count our blessings.
RoSy!!!! You are back. So nice to see / well, read you again! Thank-you for reading and commenting!
HI Stacey!
I’m kinda’ back. Things get crazy with the girls in sports & my son ready to graduate HS.
Will always try to make my visits as I get a chance.
Hope you had a great Mother’s Day.
{Hugs}
Oh, RoSy – I think we are two peas in a pod! As I recover, life is getting busier. I miss having the time to reflect on life. I don’t feel as “together” as I do when I write. Thanks for visiting when you do! I had a wonderful day down memory lane! Hope you enjoyed too, busy lady.