ALMOST HAPPY

Tuesday, February 28, 2006

Not much new on the Spain front! Getting plans ready for Nicole's mom to visit in the next couple of weeks. Have to see how the 4th-floor-no-elevator apartment holds up. All worth it for the homecooking…

Found this awesome quote the other day when reading about the history of Islam in Spain:

"I have now reigned about 50 years in victory or peace, beloved by my subjects, dreaded by my enemies, and respected by my allies. Riches and honors, power and pleasure, have waited on my call, nor does any earthly blessing appear to have been wanting to my felicity. In this situation, I have diligently numbered the days of pure and genuine happiness which have fallen to my lot. They amount to fourteen". --- Abd ar-Rahman III of Spain (960 A.D.)

Abd ar-Rahman consolidated power over nearly all of Spain, rejected the authority of the entire Muslim power structure, and made Cordoba the greatest city in all of Europe…nothing had existed like it since Rome. And he did it before the age of 27. If this dude wasn't happy with his accomplishments or possessions in life, what hope does a freelancing, English-teaching coffee addict of the 21st century have?!?! Well, maybe ADSL would help…

Not really sure why we feel happiness is something to strive for. Why is it we always believe that it's something we will eventually "reach"? I personally blame Disney. Cinderella II: The Honeymoon's Over never really hit it off with test audiences. It's tough to believe that money, fame, and career success don't guarantee happily-ever-after euphoria, but there's sense of truth to it.

Not to say I don't fall into the same trap! You can play the Fill in the Blank game with me…"My life would be soooooo much happier if only _______!" Can't count how many times I've said it. Can't count how many times it's come true and good feelings about getting it didn't stay. Every day though I seem to realize this fact a little bit more: Happiness is a choice. Wishing and worrying only lead to disappointment. Learn to love what's happening in and around your life, and maybe you'll find life a little more perfect. At least I for one am gonna try!

But I would still love that ADSL.

(Finishing with me fave quote of all time…from the only President who could say "Honesty is my first name.")

"Most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be." --- Abraham Lincoln