Wisdom Is Flowing With the Current

I have been struggling for months with a lack of human contact. I miss the sound of outdoor laughter, I miss seeing a face, I miss seeing the bounce in the steps of others when I am out and about. Being with another person in real life brings a sense of connection that is hard to replace. And, I miss my family and occasions and card games, and lunches out with friends, and going to museums and to the movies and sharing popcorn with my Ultimate Concierge. Being with loved ones makes you feel appreciated. The day in and day out of a bland lifestyle is not intoxicating, especially given the current circumstances that have led to these feelings. I miss feeling intoxicated, and I feel life in Elsewhere is colorless. These negative experiences have impacted my outlook. Like a woman without her red lipstick and the scent of her delicious perfume.

The Bewitching Witch

Around the last week of March, I began to feel a catastrophe looming in the air. I tried to brush them away but they persisted in staying. So, I finally shared them with my Ultimate Concierge. Everything that has happened so far I predicted. At this point, I can confidently say my observations were accurate. My Ultimate Concierge nicknamed me a bewitching good witch afterward.

I don’t have special powers but I do study all aspects of the global situation; COVID-19 and its repercussions, politics and its repercussions, monetary repercussions, and social repercussions. From so much reading along with a little witchcraft, I have learned to discern the difference between fairytales (fake news), and what is reality. Maintaining perspective is key—it helps me separate fairytales from reality and see situations more clearly.

Confront Reality with a Positive Goal

Honestly, I have worn myself out with worry over the global situation in Elsewhere. The challenges I am facing have been dramatically hard on me because I am not used to dealing with situations that I have little or no control over. Living in Elsewhere feels like a constant nightmare; Though life in my apartment in the sky with my Ultimate Concierge, and America (my pooch) is more often than not a pleasant dream. Thank goodness I am married to a man who tells me, “Be grateful for all your blessings.” My faith in God helps me recognize each blessing, and I try to approach each day with thankfulness.

My goal in 2021 is to focus on a positive approach on how to ease and reduce my fears of the outside world. Maintaining positive attitudes is essential for my well-being. I can do this by studying. For example, should I take the vaccine? I will study the pros and cons. Am I responsible for signing up for the vaccine and if so when and where? How can I satisfy my curiosity? How can I protect my family if it should come to that? And how can I share my feminine feelings with friends I can no longer spend time with because of COVID-19? When I connect with my friends, I make sure to express gratitude to them for their support and kindness.

I am longing to hear the laughter and chatter in restaurants, look into the eyes of my daughter, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, and all of my Grands. Darling, I will race with all my might with my Ultimate Concierge and friends to catch a flight to somewhere over the rainbow!

The Joy of Using One’s Mind

I say this to myself, “I have no control over the joyless world, Elsewhere. But, I do have control over the windows in my mind.” With 2021 around the corner, I have decided on my New Year’s Resolution:

“I have limitations and barriers beyond my control in Elsewhere that I will stand above with a positive attitude.”

Cultivating a positive outlook is a valuable personality trait that can shape how we experience life. After stating my resolution, I remind myself that feeling grateful and appreciating the positives can improve self esteem and self confidence. Grateful improves mental health and can decrease depression, as countless studies have shown. These habits contribute to a good life by helping us focus on what truly matters. Appreciating small moments on a daily basis improves well-being. Try writing down three things you are grateful for each day to feel gratitude and make this a habit on a daily basis.

Now darling, can I do it? I am not going to kid myself. I can only say, “I will try try try!”

How to Stand Above the Fray

Darling, my method of standing above the fray: I will count my blessings, remembering that even the small things matter. I will try and face stress with patience and hope, knowing that these practices can also lead to better sleep. Experiencing gratitude in daily life is essential, as it helps foster a sense of well-being. And, I will try and come to terms with life in Elsewhere by constantly activating my intellectual awareness over emotion. I will concentrate on projects, family relationships, and friendships. As well, I will concentrate on my husband and pooch and not let’s not forget to take care of myself and my needs. I know these actions will bring me happiness and joy and have a positive impact on my overall well-being. However, I am fully aware that perfect solutions usually do not exist. And, I will take it one step further; I will learn to be at peace by maintaining an attitude of gratitude.

The Happiest Man in America

I’m a friend of Alvin Wong, chosen by Gallup in 2011 as, ‘The Happiest Man in America!’ I was not a bit surprised when I heard the news because Alvin just is.

We were family friends when I lived in Honolulu. Alvin is Chinese American and a kosher observing Jew! He married my girlfriend, Trudy an orthodox Jewish woman from Atlanta. They have three children. He is 6 feet tall, he owns his own health care management business and his income is just over $100,000. These facts were important to Gallop.

Darling, Alvin had a constant little smile on his face, he never hurried, he was introspective and pleasing, he worked hard and adored his family; two daughters and a son. He was humble. Alvin always maintained positive attitudes, which made a big difference in his happiness and the happiness of those around him. When I was in Alvin’s company I was happy, and he made everyone feel truly appreciated. He reminded me of the Dalai Lama.

Implementing a Gratitude Practice

Darling, if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that cultivating gratitude is one of the healthiest habits we can embrace for a fulfilling and happy life. Practicing gratitude is a conscious effort—a daily habit that gently shifts our focus from what’s missing to all the beauty and blessings that surround us. When we take time to reflect on the positive aspects of our lives, we nurture our mental health and foster a grateful mindset that can carry us through even the most challenging moments.

One of my favorite ways to practice gratitude is by keeping a gratitude journal. Each day, I set aside a quiet moment to write down the things I am thankful for—big or small. Perhaps it’s the warmth of a morning cup of tea, a kind word from a friend, or simply the peacefulness of the present moment. This simple act of writing helps me express appreciation for life in all its beauty and reminds me to savor the positives, even when the world feels uncertain.

A gratitude journal is more than just a notebook; it’s a gentle companion on the journey to well-being. By making gratitude a regular habit, we train our minds to recognize and appreciate our blessings, which in turn increases our happiness and sense of peace. Over time, this gratitude practice can transform our outlook, helping us to enjoy God’s blessings and experience a truly happy life.

So, darling, why not begin today? Take a few minutes to reflect and write about what you feel grateful for. You may be surprised at how this small, daily ritual can make a big difference in your life, nurturing a grateful attitude and a positive mindset that will carry you forward with joy and appreciation.

It’s All About Attitude and Gratitude

After he was chosen ‘The Happiest Man in America,’  he began taking his title very seriously because many people were calling him to ask, “Alvin, how can I be happy?”

He became an authority and layman advisor because he wanted to help and give back to those in need. Alvin conveyed to them with a smiling face and twinkling eyes that happiness can be summed up in one word: ATTITUDE!

I am filled with gratitude that I know so many fascinating, passionate, smart, funny, alluring, intriguing, and above all, happy people. These people have all brightened my life and taught me so much. I am truly appreciating the lessons and joy they have brought me. I miss them very much.

How will you enter the new year of 2021? Will it be with attitude and gratitude? Let me know your thoughts and feelings in the comments at the bottom of this page.