The word 'happy.'

I've become penpal friends with folks across the world. Canada, India, Japan, and Iran, just to name a few. Only the internet has made this possible.
One friend in particular, Shadi, which just so happens to mean happiness, has stretched my mind and taught me the words: Fee Amanillah - They mean - God be with you.
Another new friend from Canada taught me that Thanksgiving is celebrated there in the month of October. They just celebrated it last week, and, yes, they have turkey too.
And from India, a gentleman of soul and nature deepens my thoughts.
People all around the world...our Sisters and Brothers...can teach us so much, just with the touch of a computer key. Of course it would be so much more enjoyable to sit beside them to talk, laugh and sometimes cry.
To appreciate true 'happiness' we must know sadness as well. Our highest good can come out of our deepest suffering. Sometimes that sad road is the path to 'happiness' . But many of us try taking detours to avoid sadness, thus missing the 'happiness' that was waiting for us. If we could live life backwards, we'd not make those mistakes...but that's not possible.
A friend in Japan taught me the word 'ikigai'. It means a sense of purpose in our lives. Something we all long and keep reaching for among the stars. Only through God can we reach those heights.
Your future starts everyday when you wake up. Make the most of it. Choose 'happiness'. Share 'happiness.
Keep your heart open for life's blessings. Reach out and make friends across the world. There's many gifts to give... and receive. But I think 'happiness' is the one I most enjoy.

Anticipation

Waiting for my new novel to be released is a lot like waiting in line to use the bathroom. I'm dancing around in anticipation.
I've attached a value, called self-worth, to my life. It either wins me the deference of others or their indifference.
Though others opinion of me matters; I don't allow it to generate control of my life.Took me years to learn to let go and let God guide my way.
Anticipating my book's release also scares me. As a writer, I can't help but slip and bare my soul on some pages, subliminally, but I can see it. Seems to be a habit I can't shake free of. It's cathartic in many aspects. However, only a few of my family and friends recognize the me that shows up in black and white occasionally.
I feel like a kid waiting for Christmas.
Yeah, the anticipation is toying with me. But it's also keeping me humble.
I just hope God gives me a nod of approval as I try to use His Love as a message in my writing.