on happiness....

the older we get, the more we want to hang on to what we've already got -- the things we've worked so hard to achieve. the relationships we have nurtured through the years.  we also have more experience with pain and loss, having been knocked around a bit by life, and having learned a few lessons the hard way. 

i learned about the most tremendous paradox of my life, that the most pure and incredible feelings that you will ever feel will not come from what is given to you, but from what you give to others.  LOVE others. do not expect anything in return, do not put conditions or rules on the love that you give…love because it is how you feel.  the very best thing you can ever, ever do for your heart and your soul is to leave people, places, and situations better than you found them,

if you're like me, and you find that your life has become more about pursuing peace and relaxation than crazy excitement every day, rest assured that you aren't missing out on happiness. your happiness has evolved, just as you have. even though our version might seem less fun by the standards of our younger selves, that doesn't mean it's less good. stop,  take some time,  look around and realize how very lucky you are...  you will be amazed.

love sent, xo