When I was in high school, I had a poster/poem on my wall in my room. I don’t remember the author of the poem but it stated: Happiness is like a Butterfly. The more you chase it, the more it will elude you but if you turn your attention to other things, it comes and softly sits on your shoulder.

These days I experience this so deeply. I find that I no longer chase things but enjoy the moment as it is.

These last ten years have not been without extreme pain, grief or sadness. But if I looked at the last ten years overall, I would sum it up as a time of peace and beauty. I would see birds, critters, flowers, trees, the brilliant sky at sunset and at sundown. I would feel gratitude, contentment and joy to be alive.

Wherever we go, there we are.

Whether alone or with a partner, the key is to turn inward and create the peace we seek.

The mindset is important. Focusing on what I am grateful for has allowed me to see and feel even more of it.

Realizing that no matter how small, what I do makes a small difference in another’s life.

Spending time in nature, appreciating the beauty of the moment fills me with awe.

Speaking truth and living authentically carries its own freedom.

Making the most of what is and realizing the grass is not greener over there has been a game changer.

Making necessary steps when the loving nudge is strong keeps the current flowing.

All of this and more I am grateful for.

The butterfly sits on my shoulder today.