Happiness is like a butterfly…

By

Sandra Wilkins

          What revitalizes you?  Is it a crunchy stroll along a leaf-strewn wooded path in the crisp autumn air, or going to a museum and gazing at the incredible works of art or maybe it’s having a spa day?

          It wasn’t until recently that I even considered I needed time for myself so I could relax and become energized.  When my girls were tiny, I put my all into raising them.  Now that they’re older and don’t need my constant attention, I see that it’s time to put some effort back into me.  Some people might think that sounds vain, but, truly, it’s not.  A woman can become lost in her hectic life.  Taking a minute now and again helps restore the tranquility. 

          What can a person do to find that calmness?  Yelling “Serenity, now!” like George’s dad on the television show Seinfeld didn’t work for him and I doubt it would work for anyone.  Personally, standing in a private corner of my yard, peering up through the lacy trees at the ever-changing clouds while I try to listen to God is one of my favorite things to do.  Watching my talented friends sing and play music is another.  A spontaneous hug and “I love you, Mom.” swells my heart also.  These humble things mean so much more than gold to a worn soul.   

          This quote from Nathaniel Hawthorne sums it up for me, “Happiness is like a butterfly which, when pursued, is always beyond our grasp, but which, if you sit down quietly, may alight upon you.”  If you’re bedraggled and weary, I hope you take a moment—for it doesn’t need to be much longer—to find those simple, beautiful things that invigorate you and give you peace.

  

   Sandra Wilkins is busy writing another series while home educating her two daughters.  Ada’s Heart, Rose’s Hope and Gwen’s Honor are her first three published wholesome historical romances.  Go to www.sandrawilkins.com to find out more about her and her books.