In college I studied English and art; the things that made me happy. I am still the English and art major at heart. It is still the written word that brings me joy. The use of language to tell a story and transport you to another place. A splash of color, a glistening dewdrop, or a majestic sunset bring me such happiness. Seeing the pure pinkness of my cat’s nose while she naps in the sun and how water droplets bead on my dog’s coat when we walk in the rain. These are a few of my favorite things.
I now sit at a desk all day pushing a pencil, really a mouse and a keyboard. It drives some of my friends a little nuts that I don’t want to talk about work. I have the luxury of being able to leave it at the office and that is where it stays. It is not the thing in life that brings me joy, so why would I want to talk about it? It certainly does not define me.
I want to be defined by the happiness and joy in my life, the new knowledge I glean each day, and the smile I leave for someone else. I love to learn now that I am learning on my terms. School was never fun and that’s why I thought I wanted to be a teacher. Today I teach what I want, the way I want. I teach people tiny ways to be happy and how to spread joy. Even when I teach at “work”, I have fun. Because otherwise, why do it.
If we can’t have fun, what’s the point? What defines your life and how you live? Are you working just for another paycheck? We all have to have money to live, but do you make the best use of your life outside of that paycheck?
A few recent snaps that made me smile and I hope they will you as well. May this day bring you all the smiles and joy you desire.
Lula Harp 