by Judith Whitehead

Created on: October 24, 2008

Find Pleasure in the Small Things in Life

It is during hard times that our country is encountering, that we need to reflect on what is

important in our lives. Lord only knows there are enough things going on around us that

can bring us to an all time low. The country is in financial disarray, we are still sending

troops to Iraq and American families are loosing loved ones every day; unemployment

is at an all time high in our country, and many families are struggling to make ends meet.

We need to focus on the positives that our country has to offer because it is still among

one of the best places to live in the entire world. The freedoms we get to exercise do not

even compare to those of other countries. We are able to live where we want to, worship

in the way we choose and our children are still entitled to get an education where ever

they may live. We have welfare for those in need and unemployment for those who have

been unfortunate to have lost their jobs. We have shelters for homeless and soup kitchens

for the needy. These may seem insignificant points to some, but think of the many

countries that don't even offer these things to their suffering.

During these difficult times we must reflect on the positive things in our lives; what is

really important to us. First and foremost, our good health is the most important issue.

Without it, nothing is possible. Those who have had a difficult life because of health

threats can empathize. Our friends, and loved ones and our families and coworkers are

who bring us the most joy throughout the day. Without them, we would be empty. We

still have the ability to seek work, educate ourselves and live where we so choose. If we

rise in the morning to great another day we are ahead of the game. Life brings hope, and

opportunities may be just around the corner. We have had a beautiful, warm summer and

a wonderful Fall this year. We need to take time to enjoy the simple pleasures of life;

beauty all around us costs nothing to enjoy. We need to not dwell on the past and instead

look to the future for hope and opportunities. Positive things can happen to positive

thinkers. I am a confirmed believer that attitude directly affects our futures; a "sour" one

only beings misery to ourselves and all around us. No one wants to be around a person

with a "bad" or a defeatist attitude; especially when seeking employment, that attitude

will come through on an interview believe it or not. It may not be from something you

say; it can be body language alone. People want to be around positive people, it's

contagious.

Next time you are feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders, take time to enjoy a

sunrise, the leaves that are bold and bright with color, a new snowfall glistening in the

sunlight, the smell of the morning cold air, the gentle sound of rain on the window, or a

walk through the park. Take time to contact someone you have been thinking about and

haven't spoken to in a long time. These simple pleasures can make us feel renewed,

again and can help you think more clearly. When you come down to it, it's the simple

pleasures in life that can bring the most joy. Where there is life, there is always hope for

another day; each one better than the last. So we must make an effort to live for today,

and not waste time on worrying about what has passed and not what may happen in the

future.

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