Ode to Happiness

Ode to Happiness
Yesterday on my walk with the 3 hounds I encountered sun, wind, pelting rain and brutal winds. Winds so strong that, at times, I was walking in place and wondering if the dogs would levitate. Lowering my head and upper body to brace against the sheer force pushing against me, I made slow but steady progress. The experience of such a micro system is frequent in Colorado and something that brings a smile to my face. It is a great analogy for sitting in the midst of turbulence and exposing oneself to the full force of the elements until it suddenly passes.
Living with a chronic illness is like being in a micro system of turbulence. There is often a respite from the viscous wind and pelleting rain, but the knowledge that it can come at any time can leave me feeling like the illness has taken me hostage. The illness can take up all the real estate in one’s mind and body, over riding any memory of happiness or joy. Erasing the memory of the pleasure brought by the sun warming the face and a cool breeze tickling the skin.
Being prepared for the micro system is the key to happiness. Much like having layers of protection ready for when the skies erupt, growing layers of happiness and joy make weathering a storm possible. Sometimes there is no sun during a storm, but it is always possible to have sunshine simultaneously during a storm. Happiness can shine through sadness, sorrow and even through days of pure defeat.
Sun can shine through rain, and there have been many days of sharing tears with The Bearded One, while also holding onto the happiness of sharing a vulnerable moment with the one I love. Happiness is also created by accepting the love and support of another (even when the other is a faithful hound).
Preparation for those turbulent times requires an intentionality of happiness. Finding those moments of joy, the rays of sunshine, the colorful mushroom in the forest, the encounter of moose along the path, the joy of a trickle of water burbling by. Weaving those moments of joy together creates a web of happiness that will protect through pelting rain and torrid winds.
There are times when that blanket of happiness feels so inaccessible and the storm so powerful, yet, the storm will pass and joy is right where I left it.  Another opportunity for joy is waiting in the next moment.
Wishing you much joy and happiness.
WanderJill