Happiness is a vehicle, a pathway, a modality rather than an
end in itself. I was nicknamed “Joy Ann”
growing up by a cousin, and I continue to wear my heart on my sleeve. People
know when I’m happy and when I’m not. Happiness feels better. At age 56 I have a good handle on brings
happiness: good conversations, connection to spirit, movement, creative work,
comfort, authentic companionship, and beauty to name a few.
I also know that happiness is a habit--that where I put my
attention contributes to my state of being.
As much as I admire people who fight for worthy causes, I don’t want to
push against anything because that doesn’t bring me joy, just a rush of
adrenaline followed by a chaser of righteousness. With only so much time, I’d
rather advocate for something, move
in the direction of what I want, and call
out the goodness in others.
Acknowledging my exquisite health means not comparing my
body to the 25 year olds in my hot yoga classes but rather celebrating the
energy, vitality, and wellness that abounds in me at this time of life. Being helpful means not just writing, giving
talks or leading retreats that teach and inspire, but being a light in the
grocery line, and I have a ways to go to develop patience with pokey clerks.
My recovery program asks that I take a daily inventory, and
while it’s important to note where I’ve gotten off course, I want to use these
three words to acknowledge daily how I’ve shown up and contributed to life. If
I can say by the end of 2015 that I was mostly happy, healthy, and helpful, I
will count that a success.
