This finding joy in everyday things gets laughed at from time to time or described as "Pollyanna-ism" from others, but it's how I am wired. I really identify with this and how important it is to "reframe", take a step back and see what I can learn from what's happening if I feel like things are not going how I want or expect. There's always a flower growing in an impossible spot, a ray of sunshine coming through the clouds or a song that can change my mood for the better.
When I was young (and unconcerned with skin cancer), I was sun-bathing with a friend, and remarked on how the hairs on my arm were all like tiny rainbows. She scoffed: “You’re so easily amused.” But I recognized it (even mid-scoff) as a great gift, and continue to take delight in little things. Right now, in my immediate environment? Fresh air from an open front door, freshly mopped wood floors beneath bare feet, a pen with purple ink, a new book to read, voices of neighbors on the street. Moments of joy (fresh air!!!) settling into contentment and gratefulness.
How wonderful that you recognized your joyful attentiveness as "a great gift" and didn't let the scoffing shut you down! That too, was a great gift—you gave it to yourself!
what a beautiful poem arriving in my inbox at just the right time. Thank you Phyllis for this beauty.
You're so welcome, Claire!
This finding joy in everyday things gets laughed at from time to time or described as "Pollyanna-ism" from others, but it's how I am wired. I really identify with this and how important it is to "reframe", take a step back and see what I can learn from what's happening if I feel like things are not going how I want or expect. There's always a flower growing in an impossible spot, a ray of sunshine coming through the clouds or a song that can change my mood for the better.
I hear ya. The "everyday" can be such good medicine!
When I was young (and unconcerned with skin cancer), I was sun-bathing with a friend, and remarked on how the hairs on my arm were all like tiny rainbows. She scoffed: “You’re so easily amused.” But I recognized it (even mid-scoff) as a great gift, and continue to take delight in little things. Right now, in my immediate environment? Fresh air from an open front door, freshly mopped wood floors beneath bare feet, a pen with purple ink, a new book to read, voices of neighbors on the street. Moments of joy (fresh air!!!) settling into contentment and gratefulness.
How wonderful that you recognized your joyful attentiveness as "a great gift" and didn't let the scoffing shut you down! That too, was a great gift—you gave it to yourself!