Eternity

“Eternity is not something that begins after you are dead. It is going on all the time. We are in it now.” – Charlotte Perkins Gilman (1860–1935) – American writer I recently lost a very dear friend. She was coming up on her 91st birthday, so I can’t say her “leave taking” (as I prefer …

Happiness

“If only we’d stop trying to be happy, we could have a pretty good time.” – Edith Wharton (1862-1937) American novelist Aha! “If only we’d stop trying to be happy…” Wharton writes. Yes, indeed. The whole notion of “trying to be happy” suggests one is trying too hard. I think one is either disposed to …

The Courage of Patience

“What seems like courage is really persistence–the ability to put part of yourself on hold–Patience. – Barbara Gordon – 20th century American writer Yes, patience is a certain kind of courageā€¦and perhaps, more so than the impulsive “throw yourself on a grenade to save your buddies” kinds of actions we’re used to touting as courage–the …

Seize the Day! Or Not

“Why not seize the pleasure at once? How often is happiness destroyed by preparation, foolish preparation?”– Jane Austen (1775-1817) English writer When the strain of covering for every possible consequence of one’s behavior becomes too much for us, we are likely pulled by the counter-reaction–“Throw caution to the winds, indulge the moment!” It’s a tough …