IT'S OKAY, IT'S OKAY!

A few nights ago the television show, America's Got Talent, ran a retrospective of all of their "Golden Buzzer" moments...those acts that were the Judge's favorites over the years.  One of the acts was a 30 year old singer, Nightbirde, whose real name is Jane Marczewski. singing a song she had written.  The song, "It's Okay," was her homage to the fact that she had cancer.  In fact, she unfortunately passed away shortly after the finale that she was too sick to perform in. But all of that only leads up to her statement when questioned about her attitude and beautiful smile in light of her severe health issues:

    "You can't wait for life to not be hard anymore to be happy."

In a time when things are difficult, that is what we have to remember.  Whether it is your health, your finances or whatever troubles we perceive to have, we can't wait for life to not be hard anymore to be happy.

Yea, I know...Inflation is running rampant, we have a demented President and worthless administration that is doing everything possible to tank our Democracy.  We are in a needless war and the prospect of more wars grows everyday as the President tries to deflect his own problems by doing head fakes and other things to divert attention away from his own problems.  And he keeps putting totally unqualified people in positions of responsibility.

This is a guy who has never comforted a sick child, petted a dog, can't laugh at himself or can't be happy about anything.  He doesn't care what he destroys or cares for nothing other than himself.  He couldn't even bring himself to go to his namesake son's wedding...his golf game in New Jersey was more important.  He is a convicted felon and pedophile who has awarded himself and his insurrectionists $1.8 million and unless our worthless Congress or corrupt Supreme Court does something about it, (Yes, since numerous lawsuits have been filed over this despicable act, it will eventually get to the Supreme Court), there is nothing we can do.  He has no concept of the meaning of happiness. But we can't wait for life to not be hard anymore to be happy!

Happiness is an attitude.  It is a complex emotional state characterized by feelings of joy, contentment, satisfaction and fulfillment.  It is not merely the absence of sadness but a multifaceted experience that balances present enjoyment with a broader sense of one's own meaning and purpose.  

Therapist.com says that there are 7 types of Happiness:  

1. Hedonia (Sensory & Pleasure-Based)

This is the most primal form of happiness, driven by seeking pleasure and avoiding pain. It involves the temporary thrill you get from eating a great meal, listening to your favorite song, or relaxing on a beach. It is short-lived but vital for immediate well-being. 

2. Eudaimonia (Purpose & Meaning)

Rooted in Aristotle’s philosophy, this is the deep, lasting fulfillment that comes from living in alignment with your values, realizing your potential, and contributing to something bigger than yourself. It is the satisfaction you feel after volunteering or achieving a long-term goal. 

3. Engagement (Flow)

Often referred to as being in "the zone", this is the happiness that occurs when you are entirely absorbed in an activity that stretches your skills. Whether you are painting, coding, or playing a sport, you lose track of time and feel completely immersed in the present. 

4. Social & Relational

Human beings are wired for connection. This type of joy stems from building deep relationships, feeling loved by family, laughing with friends, and sharing meaningful experiences with your community. 

5. Challenge & Achievement

This is the sense of pride and competence that arises from overcoming obstacles. It involves pushing past your limits, persevering through adversity, and celebrating the victories you’ve earned through hard work. 

6. Awe & Wonder

Awe is a powerful, transcendent emotion felt when you encounter something vast and beautiful that changes your perspective on the world. It is triggered by experiences like standing in a redwood forest, looking at the stars, or listening to breathtaking music. 

7. Amusement & Humor

Rooted in playfulness and levity, this is the lighthearted happiness that comes from a good laugh. It acts as an emotional release, reminding you not to take life too seriously and reducing stress in the process. 

Besides my health problems which I have chronicled here, my Brother, Sister-In-Law and several close friends have recently had health challenges.  As we wind ourselves through the challenges of life all of us need to keep remembering to take those challenges one day at a time and not wait for life to not be hard anymore to be happy.

To listen to Nightbird's Audition, here is the link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoNCairOJ_M

And if you can watch this and not be filled with "Awe and Wonder" then you really don't understand the triumph of the human spirit.

And The Journey Continues......