I’ve been doing a lot of research lately on happiness, after getting turned on my a book a friend gave me called “The Happiness Project,” by Gretchen Rubin. It’s quite interesting and has made me think really hard about sources of happiness in my own life. It’s also made me think about my attitude and outlook, which I’m generally proud of. I’m a hopeless optimist, to a fault sometimes and I generally give people the benefit of the doubt, also to a fault at times. I’m a pretty positive person and my mantra is “it could always be worse,” which I’m constantly reminded of by the little star tattooed on my wrist (a different blog topic). I know that I find happiness in giving to others. I truly enjoy volunteering, baking cookies to brighten someone’s day, planning outrageous birthday parties, or buying a cup of coffee for someone. These acts, big or small, give me a rush. I love it. I guess that’s evident in my Mt. Rainier adventure. But, when it comes to giving, I’ve noticed that I often focus on what I CAN’T give and wind up hearing, “I don’t have time,” or “I can’t afford that,” or most recently, I’ve been focused on what I CAN’T do to prepare for Rainier because I’ve had this cold/sinus infection/flu bonanza for three weeks. So, with the help of Gretchen’s insight and my own reflection, I’ve decided this is no good. It’s time for a revolution, or a mental makeover. I’m dedicated and committed to focusing on what I CAN give. For example, I CAN give my patience to others. This is huge. I can take a deep breath when my students are wound up and let them have their moment, lovingly re-focusing them. I CAN be patient and wait for Justin to decide what movie he’d like to watch, even though I’ve already decided what would be best for our date night. I CAN wait for my Mother to decide which weekend she’d like to visit, though we’ve discussed it three dozen times. Patience is an easy thing to give to others.
Support is my second “a-ha” give. I have been torn this year, after signing up for Rainier. I’m asking everyone I know multiple times, to donate to my cause. Well, there are other causes that are important to me as well. I’ve always participated in JDRF events and raised money for them, after having a student with Diabetes in my class four years ago. My partner, Justin, has Ulcerative Colitis/Crohn’s disease and this has an extreme impact on our daily lives as I see him battle, live and try to manage each moment. We are active in the CCFA in raising money and awareness for these diseases as well. But- I’m not comfortable in asking people to donate to these causes as well as Rainier and I’ve struggled with this. They’re ALL important to me but I can’t do it all. I’ve realized that I can still support these causes. I can show up. I can raise awareness. I can tell people that I care and I support them. There is still so much I CAN do. My friends and family who can’t afford to make a donation to my Rainier climb have supported me with notes, emails and bits of encouragement that are invaluable to me. Yes, I need to reach my $5,000 goal, but I also need to be reminded of why I’m doing this by feeling the connection and support of friendship and the human spirit.
Maybe you’ve already experience this epiphany, but it’s just recently happened for me. I’m challenging myself to figure out all the ways I CAN give. Be loving. Be patient. Be kind. Be open. Be present. Be Amy.
Amy, know that youre daily support of Anna is more than enough! You have given so much of yourself over the years to Anna – do not stuggle – focus this year on Rainier as you deserve it! You ARE doing it all! And we are all so thankful.
I saw the nice mention of my book, The Happiness Project, here! I very much appreciate those kind words and you shinning a spotlight on my work!! Thanks and best wishes,
Gretchen