Poemattic: Poetry and Art for the Soul

    

Today is designated the International Day of Happiness and it is celebrated worldwide. Happiness Day was first celebrated in 2013. It was declared by the United Nations in 2012. it was founded by Jayme lllien and it is observed by 193 nations.

Frankly I had not heard of this day until today. I wondered if this is because today I was very much happy with the things going on in my life. Then it dawned on me. What if someone is not happy on this day specifically? Are we suppose to pretend to be happy?

According to reports I read, we are suppose to spread happiness as best we can. I called up a few friends and wished them well. They did not know about the commemoration. I made a special lunch for my husband. Food always make me happy.

But then I hear that there was another shooting at a high school in Maryland. I thought of the students who must have been terrified. Happiness became just a word.

Someone very unhappy had decided to horrify others. How do we help someone who has become so miserable with life?

I do not want to finish this post on a sad note. I guess we all need a day proclaimed for the celebration of happiness. it just seems to be harder to actually be happy these days. I propose we start by making ourselves happy first. It may sound egoistic but it is really up to me to make me happy. It is the only way others will be happy too. I thought long and hard about what truly makes me happy what really matters. For me it is my family and being around my grandchildren. Painting, writing, and looking up at the blue sky make me happy.

We may be bombarded by negative and the sad and tragic things that happen in this world. But if we keep track the happy moments probably outweigh the sad ones.

I remembered an activity I would do with my students. I told them that I was keeping a FBI file on each of them. It was an acronym. I would share with them my observations of the Fabulous, Beautiful and Interesting things they had accomplished. Without a doubt I would get many smiles. Some would tell me I had made them happy. I think I will continue this practice with family and friends. Hopefully, happiness will grow stronger. Have a great International Happiness Day!! Breathe, smile and be happy!!!

What makes you happy? I would love to hear from you.