“Happiness is in the heart, not in the circumstances”

The vision of the happy family eating home made meals every night, having family time once a week,and anticipating the annual family vacation is a great one. But for the most part, it’s just that: a vision. We are much more likely to go through “spurts” where we feel we are pulling together as a family, and go through times where it seems no matter what we try, we’re falling apart.Occasionally, our vacations will be wonderful. Other times they’ll be filled with sick kids, sunburn, or lost luggage. Sometimes we will all sit down to eat together. Other times there is bound to be a last-minute meeting, an after-school sport, or, if we do all sit down a burnt dinner because the chef is in shock at everyone’s arrival.But what makes the difference between the good trips and the bad?

Take, for example, two families who have excitedly planned a picnic. The day for the picnic arrives and storms arrive with it. There is no hope of the outdoor jaunt that the fam-ily craved. Why does one family complain about the weather, mope and pout, while another family throws the picnic blanket down on the living room floor, grabs the snacks and a board game and enjoys a day in?It all ties back to priorities and attitude. If your priority is truly your family, sure it will be a disappointment that it’s raining, but you can focus on the fact you still have your family together, and there are plenty of other ways to spend your time. If your focus is elsewhere, you are likely to mope, since the picnic probably became a vehicle for “using up the time,” because you felt it necessary.

When plans change and good intentions go awry, don’t give
up. Step back and look for ideas to make the most of what you
have in the here and now.

I promote happiness and togetherness.