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Backstory
“You make me happy.” It’s often said, when you have someone with whom there is mutual love and respect. When you find yourself smiling as you think of someone, you can’t help but assign happiness to them. Yet the true source of happiness comes from inside. We make the decision every day whether to be happy or not; whether we realize it or not. This story is about the happiness that comes from within.
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Empty Seat – #17
It’s a beautiful day and you’re driving through our countryside. Cloudless sky, green mountains, all is right with the world. And you know . . .
It IS that way, whether the seat next to you is empty or not.
Too often, we depend on other people for our happiness. Spouse . . . children . . . friends . . . co-workers. Yet when all is said and done, each of us is responsible for our own happiness.
Prayers are comforting if they are said in the quiet of your home, or with a church full of people. A beautiful song is just as melodic, whether it’s heard by one person or hundreds. It can take you soaring . . . and give you a smooth landing. Sometimes you get more benefit from listening to the notes by yourself, where they can wash over you without distraction.
Being alone is sometimes a gift; a break brought to you by the universe because it’s time to refocus on YOU.
Next time you are alone, don’t rush to fill the space. Let the empty seat next to you give you serenity and the time to look inward. You may find something there that you missed before. Or you may discover ideas that are fresh and new.
You may like what you see and hear and feel.
P.S.
Being alone and being lonely. Quite a difference between the two. I have experienced both. Probably you have too. Do stop and consider. If the seat next to you is empty, it may be time for you to regroup, check things out. It may be time to change paths a little. You do so much for others. Take some time for you now and make sure things are the way they should be. Spend some time with yourself and check out your happiness quotient.
[Show #17]
I agree completely, Annette. We women, especially, are good at filling up every smidgen of time and forgetting to make space. Then when that space appears, it feels like a disaster instead of an opportunity. Thank you for reframing this for us.
See the link to Elizabeth’s Compass Point newsletter on the right. Always a good and inspiring read.
As I was readying for church this morning this song came on and made me sad as we lost a very dear 61 year old friend just before Thanksgiving. Then I listened to this and it was very timely and much appreciated.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0n67dSG35L4
Very touching song, Dan. Brought back memories of the friend who sat me down and preached how it was not fair that I had not married Bill, and I should do so, because it makes a difference. A week later, I did, and she was our witness. A week later, she was gone. I thank her spirit every day for stepping up to give such good advice in what we did not know would be one of her last days.