Lesson
Happiness is not a destination but a day-by-day journey.
I read this message on a daily devotional book I have been subscribing for years. I was touched by the story of a lady named Tamer Lee Owens who credited “laughter, the Lord, and the little things” for making it to her 104th birthday celebration.
Of course, not all of us will be able to live 104 years. Some will barely make it to 60, 70 or 80 years. But no matter how much time we are given to stay here on earth, we can learn from Tamer Lee how to enjoy each day in our lives.
“The cheerful live longest in years, and afterwards in our regards. Cheerfulness is the offshoot of goodness.”
- Christian Nestell Bovee
People who laugh often live longer as they overcome the darkness of trouble with
a cheerful disposition. Remember the Filipino comedian Rene Requiestas? A huge picture of his toothless grin (one which paved the way to his stardom) was displayed during his funeral so that people will always remember him for the laughter and fun he brought as an actor.
“God is the brave man’s hope and not the coward’s excuse.”
- Plutarch
There always comes a time when we are faced with indecision in making plans for our lives. Uncertainty of the future battles against our will but oftentimes it is our unwavering faith in God that makes us determined to take the risk and succeed. The conviction of knowing that God will never forsake those who call unto Him enables us to move on.
“That man is richest whose pleasures are the cheapest.”
- Henry David Thoreau
It does not take a lot of money, power and fame to enjoy life. Waking up with the
thought that your family and friends love you for who you are, taking a good sip of Coke to refresh yourself on an extra hot day, laughing at some silly jokes shared by a colleague – all these are simple things which can give real happiness that we oftentimes overlook.
All of us are given chances to make our lives well-lived and memorable enough even if we depart from this world. No matter what life brings, it only takes a right attitude to keep us going. Laughter, the Lord and the little things – well, we may not make it to 104 years, but we can enjoy each day of our lives with these in mind.
