Life can be a tough journey. As many wise thinkers have pointed out, suffering is an inherent part of the human experience. We all face rejection, loss, and unfair treatment, making life a rollercoaster filled with pain. Ben Franklin famously noted that “nothing is certain in life except death and taxes,” but perhaps he should have included suffering in that list.
Everyone has their own stories of how life has dealt them a rough hand. While the severity of these experiences varies, sharing them can foster a sense of connection, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. I faced my share of challenges growing up—family issues, financial struggles, and mental health hurdles. Yet, I also had the love of my parents, a supportive community, and role models who championed causes they believed in. It’s all about perspective.
I can recount my childhood in two contrasting lights, both of which are true. Acknowledging the pain is essential, but letting it define us is not the answer. Too often, I hear stories of adversity that end without a resolution or a desire for change. Yes, we may not choose our circumstances, but we can certainly seek new opportunities or make the best of what we’ve got. How we perceive our challenges largely shapes who we are—not the challenges themselves.
While suffering is a part of life, so too are moments of love and joy. It’s easy to overlook the little things—like hearing your kids giggle, enjoying a good book, or savoring a cup of coffee. These seemingly insignificant moments are vital, and it’s up to us to recognize their value.
That said, I admit I feel a bit uneasy when people talk about “practicing gratitude.” To me, it seems like an elusive state of perpetual happiness. My father often speaks in extremes and claims he experiences “euphoric bliss.” Personally, I rarely reach such heights but I do find joy in small, everyday moments. An unexpected hug from my son, finding my favorite snack in stock, or enjoying a leisurely trip to the store—all of these are precious to me. I have a loving partner who stands by me, friends who enrich my life, and countless books and hobbies to keep me inspired.
These beautiful moments can remain unnoticed unless we actively seek them out, which is something I’m working on. In our home, we practice “The Three Things,” a simple exercise where we each note three joyful occurrences from our day. This practice, inspired by Sheryl Sandberg’s talk on Super Soul Sunday, serves as a powerful reminder to appreciate life’s small joys.
As we grow older, we often find ourselves reminiscing about the past, especially those carefree college days filled with laughter and camaraderie. Yet, it’s essential to remember that those times weren’t always perfect. There were challenges—hangovers, heartbreaks, and stress. While society often glorifies youth as the pinnacle of life, what if the best days are actually happening right now?
Despite the chaos of parenting, the laundry piling up, and my unkempt hair, I find myself genuinely happy. I cherish the humor and sweetness of my children, my health, and the love of my family. I recently came across a meme featuring Andy from The Office, which poignantly stated, “I wish there was a way to know when you’re in the good ol’ days before you actually left them.” It struck a chord with me because I truly believe these are my good days.
Our “glory days” aren’t confined to a specific era; they arise when we embrace our lives and surround ourselves with laughter and love. Spending this time with my family and friends is what truly matters, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything—except perhaps a much-needed haircut.
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In summary, life’s beauty lies not in the past but in our present moments filled with love and laughter. Let’s cherish those tiny joys and recognize that our best days are often happening right now.