That Happy Place

This piece of art was on my desk with a blank chalkboard-like space. It needed it to come alive with some words that reflected my heart. I gave my very gifted student the words – she created some beautiful lettering. As I watched her, I saw someone who found her happy place. She loved lettering and had spent some time honing her craft as a teenager. She proudly showed me some of her designs, which were quite good.

It was fascinating watching her as she exuded such peace and quiet in the moment – as if she was exactly where she belongs. Doing exactly what she loved to do. At the moment, I reflected on how important it is to get back to those hobbies, gifts and talents we’ve been blessed with. That thing we do just for the love of it. I encourage us this year to reclaim and rediscover our passion for those things that take us to a place of sweet repose. Where our creative juices flow and the world looks more beautiful.

So often we chase the next goal, run to meet the next deadline, strive for the next dollar, and are overwhelmed with the list of meetings to attend. We can easily lose sight of what truly brings us to a place of serenity and joy. We forget to refuel and our ‘happy moments’ take a backseat while frequently running on empty. No wonder we see many of our counterparts implode or simply crash and burn. I declare this will not be my story. If you can’t find me sometimes, be assured I have simply chosen to escape to my happy place. How about you? Have you been frequenting your happy place? Let’s agree to make that shift this year.

“…There is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can. And people should… enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God.” Ecclesiastes 3:12,13 NLT