Happiness is there… and it’s waiting for you!
Years ago, I read a wonderful piece of writing by author Napoleon Hill who wrote:
• “The richest man in the world lives in Happy Valley. He is rich in values that endure, in things he cannot lose. Here is an inventory of his riches and how he acquired them:
• I found happiness by helping others find it.
• I found sound health by living temperately and eating only the food my body requires to maintain itself.
• I hate no man, envy no man, but love and respect all mankind.
• I am engaged in a labor of love with which I mix play generously; therefore, I seldom grow tired.
• I pray daily, not for more riches, but for more wisdom with which to recognize, embrace and enjoy the great abundance of riches I already possess.
• I speak no name save only to honor it, and I slander no man for any cause for whatsoever.
• I ask no favors of anyone except the privilege of sharing my blessings with all who desire them.
• I am on good terms with my conscience; therefore, it guides me accurately in everything I do.
• I have more material wealth than I need because I am free from greed and covet only those things I can use constructively while I live.
• My wealth comes from those whom I have benefited by sharing my blessings.
• The estate of happy valley which I own is not taxable. It exists mainly in my own mind, in intangible riches that cannot be assessed for taxation and appropriated except by those who adopt my way of life. I created this estate over a lifetime of effort by observing nature’s laws and forming habits to conform with them.”
Is there a secret shared by those who live in the light of serene, abiding joy? Can there be a pattern to a cheerful, contented, and meaningful existence?
There is a key. And we can unlock the door with it and create our own happiness … by choice.
You are a divine creation, a valuable, precious person and God gave you the amazing ability to control your own thinking.
What thoughts do you allow yourself to think? Happiness is first fashioned in the mind. And your mind belongs to you. Thus, you can influence the quality of your life by the thoughts you allow therein.
Our thoughts are similar to a magnet and can attract to us the things that we desire.
For what we think, over time, can come to pass. So do not follow the path of least resistance or settle for the mediocre.
There is more in store for you. Therefore, choose to live without limits to your happiness.
Just as an athlete consistently trains his or her body, if you have seen the glass ‘half empty’ in the past, you can retrain your mind to see the glass ‘half full.’
Years back, I developed a condition called: Frozen Shoulder. Temporarily, my right arm lost its range of motion. The doctor suggested that until my condition improved, I should learn to do everything on my left side. Being righthanded, I’m accustomed to using my right hand and arm, and thought, “I’m not sure that I can only use my left-side,” and uttered that sentiment to the doctor. “Sure, you’ll be able to,” the doctor encouraged, “If you are willing to practice.”
The same principle holds true for reprogramming our own dominate thought pattern from negative to positive. For comparable to learning to use my left arm, it’s just a matter of effort and practice! Just take it one day at a time, and build up that habit.
At our home, we have five small dogs. And whenever our newest pup, Macy May, hears the can-opener turning, she runs into the kitchen. It doesn’t matter what time of the day or night it is, or whether she is sleeping or awake, when Macy hears that noise, she scampers in that direction.
Just as our puppy dashes at the sound of the can-opener, you can discipline yourself to run toward the positives. Follow the dreams of your heart.
Establish a peaceful home environment. Associate with kind, supportive people. Participate in activities that you love, spend time outdoors, and exercise. Your outlook will always be brighter after a fitness class, bike ride or brisk walk.
Despite what has transpired in the past, never be critical toward yourself, dwelling on mistakes, guilt or feelings of inadequacy, thinking you can’t do anything right.
If a negative notion comes into your mind, substitute it with a constructive statement.
Several times a day affirm with confidence, “I’m happy and healthy,” “These are the best times of my life,” and “I am grateful for all my blessings.”
Let this moment be a new beginning. And, daily, glance up and say, “Thank you” to God.
There is so much in your world for which to be happy. You have everything you need right now to begin to harness the strength of your mind.
God is planning to do great things in your future. So, believe, see the possibilities around you and look forward in joyful anticipation.
Smile often, and act and speak in a positive way, and your attitude will to respond to those choices.
Happiness is there… and it’s waiting for you!