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Backstory – Rich Follett
That promise of “pursuit of happiness” intrigues me. Note that it does not promise happiness; just the pursuit of same. It seems that some American citizens misinterpreted that promise. They expect happiness to be provided because they live in this great country. Not exactly. We are provided the chance to find our place in the world, stake a claim and then pursue happiness all on our own.
I just read that eating certain vegetables increases happiness. That’s a new one. More frequently, we can be convinced that we’ll be happy when something specific occurs. When we move to a bigger house . . . when our kids graduate . . . when the government wises up and starts to do things right.
Actually though, happiness is a state of mind. It’s not measured by how much you have or what you have achieved in your career or how many toys are in your box. Some folks have a natural bend toward how to experience happiness. They live daily with gratitude for all they have, rather than pining for what they could have.
My friend Rich Follett is one of those fortunate happy people. Even if life is not a bed of roses, he recognizes how he is daily immersed in situations that can bring him joy. For that, he is grateful. From loving his beautiful wife to writing and singing joyful songs to finding the best in his young adult students, Rich knows happiness.
He often sings and plays at local events. You may have enjoyed his music, much of which he has also written. He has a new CD and I plug it, every chance I get – like now. Read about it at www.richfollett.com.
This week’s story explores Rich’s philosophy of happiness in life. May I share it with you?
Consider This Show – Rich Follett
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We all seem to be reaching for answers. We don’t like the things that are happening. We want things back the way they were.
That will never happen. The typewriter will never return. You’ll never dial to use the telephone. Appliances no longer have simple knobs that read “on” or “off.”
There are apps for every conceivable purpose. Dancing is now calisthenics to music. There is fear and stress in the world. There is danger, never before felt.
It makes some people unhappy and turns us whiney. It causes others to reach into their soul and find strength.
My friend, Rich Follett, reached like that and this is what he decided, and I quote: “That which is beyond our control is likely to remain so. What remains to us is to continue looking for opportunities to use our artistry and humanity to bring beauty into this weary world. When I die, it will be with a psalm on my lips, love in my heart, gratitude in my soul, and a spirit attuned to hope. These things can never be taken from us unless we release them; I am one who will never let go!”
May you know peace of well-being and face tomorrow with love, understanding and hope. Like Rich does.
[Show #626]