Some people think happiness is elusive they have to chase it. She on the other hand learned through experience that it is readily available to anyone. The adage "mababaw lang ang kaligayahan nya" (she is easily pleased or her happiness is shallow) is true to her in the real sense because the little things make her cheerful and smiling deep within - i.e. sunshine, holding hands with her one and only, the birds chirping, a cup of hot chocolate or coffee, her favorite bread, food on the table, a tidy room, a warm hug, and even seeing herself in the mirror.
Allow her a good night's sleep and her soul will be delighted just as spending time with her few friends and loved ones and laughing, teasing, or simply reminiscing memories of days old make her heart bursting with joy.
Would you believe even a kiss from her Anyongi, seeing him peacefully sleeping, playing his little antics, or throwing tantrums make her giddy? Aah, her days and nights are filled with many of those. The below photo for example shows him under the computer desk sulking one afternoon because she pretended not to let him sit on her lap. Seeing him with such an expression made her laugh until her tummy ached. She could not stop hugging him afterward.
Most often, what makes her feel blissful is intangible and doesn't cost a penny. Like watching, goofing, or even just catching a glimpse of the sunset.
 |  |
 |  |
The gifts of nature - a warm day, blue sky, trees, grass, a bud or a blooming flower, flowing water, shadows, mountains, reflections, and rainbows lift her spirit and make her feel alive, connected, and hopeful.
Yes, it doesn't take much for her to be grateful and happy. Even the mundane and routine stuff they do at home makes her feel euphoric. Just like today where they enjoyed playing with their little guy, nibbling on their favorite snacks, snuggling in bed, taking a nap, and yes, watching not one but two films - the Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom and FF10. They are thankful for their personal space and freedom.
But wait, what does she say about being happy anyway?
She would not define it in words or phrases but it's like having that positive vibrant energy that makes her soul light up, hence it is easy to smile, giggle, or laugh. It's feeling good almost effortlessly and enjoying whatever she sees or does (without thinking about this or that).
As she ages, she realizes she is naturally growing happier. She easily foregoes things or situations that make her mood down and focuses on those that make her heart glow. She's also more appreciative of the little things, conversations, and silence, and puts time into creating memories, exploring places, learning, and nurturing her relationships. It's a way of life.
What makes her soul glow is not from afar. It is already in her midst — family, friends, places, food, ice cream, memories, nature. Almost everything around her makes her joyful. Not to forget this blockchain contributes to that as well.😉
Thank you and this little story was inspired by today's topic on the July INLEO initiative.
Lead image from Canva. All other photos are mine. 14072024/21:30ph