Happiness Is Contagious

“I am determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may find myself. For I have learned that the greater part of our misery or unhappiness is determined not by our circumstance but by our disposition.”- Martha Washington

These are incredibly wise words from a, no doubt, an incredibly wise woman. Being a naturally optimistic person, it’s sometimes hard for me to grasp why everyone can’t have a cheerful disposition. Yes I know, not everyone is the same; my husband for, example, is extremely introverted and I, on more than one occasion, have gotten on his nerves for still being peppy and wanting to talk after an 8 hour work day. The one thing I have noticed, though, is that no matter how much of an opposite he is to me, I can still manage to put a smile on his face, even when he’s angry or annoyed with me. Point being, happiness and optimism are extremely contagious.

Being so extroverted all the time isn't always a good thing because I try to make light out of EVERY situation; but for the most part, I believe it does the soul good to be happy, and I believe it does others well to see other people smiling and being happy. I know there’s been more than one occasion where I've had a bad day, and try as I might I can’t pull myself out of it. What makes me feel better though is seeing others smiling, enjoying the day with loved ones, and also having a glass of wine. If these don’t work, take a moment of silence to think about your life, and to see that you truly can be happy.

All you have to do to be truly happy is to see the many blessings you have in your life at the moment. I've taken a step back when I've had a bad day and I think about my family, my husband, the amazing school I’m able to attend,  my amazing friends, and an amazing job where I’m able to do what I’m passionate about, and how can I not be happy?! All of us are guilty of feeling sorry for ourselves every now and then, but it’s how we pull ourselves out of it that counts. The Dalai Lama once wrote that “The purpose of our lives is to be happy,” and I couldn't agree more. Take the time today to reflect on all that you have, and just smile. I challenge you to smile at a stranger today, because you never know how someone’s day might be going, and it can all be turned around or brightened by one simple act of kindness.