I have long enjoyed the old sit-com Frasier.
My favorite episode is called "Coffee with Niles." Check it out it sometime on Netflix. I believe you will enjoy it for the comedic banter between these two brothers as well as the central question posed in the episode.
Frasier and Niles ask one another: Are you happy?
Are you happy?
Well, are you? Yes, you.
Over the past several years there has been considerable study of happiness. Harvard researchers even tracked graduates from the Classes of 1938-40 for 75 years. That study found that love is the key to a happy life; that regardless of how we begin life, we can all become happier; and, that challenges (and the perspective they give us) can make us happier.
No real surprise there.
I am also intrigued by evidence that suggests that once we acquire what we need we don't necessarily get happier through the acquisition of more of what we want, such as money or material possessions. Fascinating. I guess "keeping up with the Joneses" really is a drag.
For some reason this doesn't surprise me either.
Well, I guess I will choose to be happy today. I'm gonna try to linger a little longer on those little, positive moments. I'm gonna smile at ten people I don't know. And I'm gonna find a way to practice compassion before I turn out my office light later this evening.
Then, when I get home, I'm going to watch "Coffee with Niles" on Netflix.
I'm gonna do that because it makes me happy.
And 30 minutes of happiness should be recognized and celebrated.
Friday Musings make me happy.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Mr. Brookman, and I also liked Frasier. I also believe that taking the time to notice some little things can make you happy. Being a grandparent has given me to see the world through news eyes and that makes me happy all over again.
ReplyDeleteForgive me if this comment is a bit intellectual. Let me start by saying I have not watched many of the episodes of Frazier, but I really enjoyed Frazier and Lillith on Cheers along with the rest of the gang.
ReplyDeleteNeuroscience indicates that if you transform your appearance into a happy appearance, your brain becomes happier. The classic example is biting on a pencil. My New England puritanical background rebels against this. But it does seem to work as does the act of "brainwashing" yourself with positive ideas. Each of us seems to have a different "happiness" quotient. For some it comes quite easily, others not so much. As we see our children sometimes struggle with their moods, if we can constructively communicate this approach, perhaps we can help them lead happier lives.
One last thought. The Harvard study also reinforced the concept that giving to others makes one happier. A nice thought for the upcoming holiday.
You frequently express gratitude in Friday Musings (and elsewhere); you are happy: No coincidence.
ReplyDeleteCheck it out:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/wh4rxaxjew62tfy/The%20Science%20of%20Happiness.mp4?dl=0