live a simple, happy and inspired life

simple
My life is fairly simple. I work all day, relax all evening (with the occasional exceptions of spending time with my sister or running errands), spend my weekends mostly with Ryan. I’m learning to make the most of my time without cluttering my life. Sometimes I make things more complicated than needed, but

happy
“Happiness is a journey, not a destination.” It’s a constant thing to strive for, and will always be that way. I’m not always happy, but I’m definitely happier than I used to be.

inspired
I let life inspire me. Beautiful scenery (whether in the city or the country), kind people, love, etc. Again, I’m not always inspired, but I try to be open to it whenever possible.

To sum it up, this goal is something I’ve made a dent in, but I’ll always strive for… it’s not completely attainable. It also falls under other goals (mostly Live Intentionally, but others as well). For simplicity’s sake, I’m going to consider it “done,” because I’m not giving up. It’s one less thing to wrap my head around for now – I can focus on this through more specific and measurable goals.

My sister and I, along with several of her friends, are participating in Chicago’s Santa letter program. We picked up several letters to Santa for kids of all ages with all sorts of requests throughout the city. Without the support of strangers, many of these kids wouldn’t have a Christmas this year. That alone breaks my heart… and touches many people. The Tribune did an article on a girl who’s wish was to “go away” with her stepmom and sister – and there was an overwhelming response for this little girl and her family. All she really wanted was to go somewhere where she had to pack a suitcase, and now she’ll be put up in a fancy hotel downtown for free. Such a small request, and although these are tough economic times, some people are able to help. I’m not rich, but I’m not poor, either… and my heart won’t let me say know to helping. My sister’s office is now buying presents for a family instead of an office gift exchange, and from word of mouth this holiday giving spirit is spreading like wildfire.

The one thing I apparently missed while sifting through letters at the post office were the adult letters. My sister later told me about it, and if the prospect of a kid not having a Christmas isn’t bad enough, these poor adults were just asking for employment. The world we live in is such a sad place… but underneath all the sadness are good hearts and potential happiness.

I still can’t get over those poor individuals who just want to work.

It reaffirms my desire to pursue a social work career path. Although jobless adults will not likely be the target population I work with, I will be doing a small part in possibly making life better for someone. The inspiration I find in the both life’s tragedies and its miracles… that’s what has to keep me going.

(Simplicity and happiness will hopefully stem from the completion of other goals. Inspiration, however, is in a category all it’s own. I’m not sure I’ll ever live a life of true happiness, but I do believe a more simple lifestyle is possible, and that inspiration should always lead my journey.)

as I said below, I think this goal just follows with completing several other goals. I don’t want to “give up” but I haven’t “completed” this, either. In fact, I guess I can never really complete this, as I’ll always be living. Hmm.

I feel like it encompases several of my other goals. I need to weed out my goals – I don’t know if this one should stay or go. Something to ponder…

I am not a huge fan of country music but there is something in the stories… particularly the music and voice of Don Williams. If you have never heard him take a listen.

Two of my faves… this one just leads me to relax and revel in the simple joys:

“I’m Just A Country Boy”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9BiibW3y1E&feature=related

and this one makes me cry sometimes…. I played it for my wife. :-)

“Your My Best Friend”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWGDeBFLsf8

I’m back home in Michigan for the weekend. The only thing I miss from the city, really, is my sister. Other than that, this is totally the life I want for myself right now. Nothing will be perfect, but to be surrounded by my family, friends, boyfriend, beautiful lakes and trees and fields… to embrace Michigan… that’s what I want right now.

Things are simpler here… slower, easier. Happier, for sure.

Hanging out with the family, playing wii and eating out and loving life together. Sounds a little more idealistic than it really is… as the family situation is inherently complicated… but it’s as simple as it’s gonna get, and I’ll take it.

It’s thunderstorming! It’s Friday and it’s thunderstorming. What a good day :-)

I’m going to go into work tomorrow with the most positive of attitudes. If I’m tired, I’m also going to go in with the largest of coffees (and not feel guilty about it, either)! My mood swings too often during the day – I just need to keep a positive, happy mindset for the day… and I can do it, dammit!

...and pretty much sums up how I feel about life :)

So I’m marking this one as ‘done’ to make way for other goals.