C’mon Get Happy
Posted: December 17th, 2010 | Author: Molly Monet | Filed under: happiness | Tags: happiness, holidays, six word fridays | 18 Comments »Is happiness a goal to achieve?
A shiny trophy that you win
And then admire on a shelf?
I once thought it was a
Husband, house, career and two kids,
But those resulted in temporary highs,
And more than a few lows.
When my marriage ended, I thought
That happiness would also take leave.
Yet instead it turned my thinking
On its head, on my head,
And asked me to reconsider what
It takes to be truly happy.
I learned that it isn’t what
I do but how I think.
So instead of fretting about the
Events in my life, I use
them as a springboard for joy.
This semester has been one of
The busiest and most stressful thus
I know that I will savor
My long Christmas vacation even more.
Recently my dad had an operation
That has caused him to find
Renewed appreciation for life and love
This year the holiday season won’t
Be a time of financial stress
But instead one to cherish the
Riches of being together in celebration.
My inability to buy lavish gifts
Has helped me choose with more
Care, thought and creativity. A disgruntled
Student motivated me to buy treats
For our last department meeting, putting
Everyone in a more festive mood.
The departure of my son’s teacher
Offers him new ways of learning.
Each “setback” is therefore an invitation
To look for the silver lining,
To find a way to peace
To reach for more uplifting thoughts.
I possess a beautiful new secret.
Because now I get it that
I’m not grateful because I’m happy.
I’m happy because I am grateful.
* * * * * *
According to dear Melissa, this will be the last Six Word Friday post until the New Year. Thanks to all the participants, readers and commenters. You have all brought me much joy. Have a happy holiday season. Remember that it is yours to make jolly.

Beautiful, Molly! I love the last two lines that represent the gift that you found, you are happy because you have new gratitude in your heart. I hope you always carry this lovely secret with you!
ayala recently posted..Happiness
Molly – I love your outlook on life and your honesty in describing how you’ve gotten where you are today.
Juliana recently posted..Happiness at Target- Wal-Mart- Barnes & Noble
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Kim G, Molly Monet. Molly Monet said: Divorce was an opportunity for me to figure out the key to my happiness. #sixwordfridays http://fb.me/yjhhM0o7 [...]
Yes! Happy because you are grateful. It took me a long time to realize that in my own life.
That philosophy speaks to your earlier point:
“…it isn’t what I do but how I think.”
Yay to fresh perspectives and for finding authentic happiness!
Oh and Happy Holidays! :)
Mel Gallant recently posted..six word fridays- happiness
So many beautiful posts today are bringing a smile to my face! Thank you so much for pointing out the obvious choice of happy! :)
T recently posted..Snapshot of my Life
There’s that pesky perspective thing again. :)
Happiness is reading about happiness.
Brook recently posted..Six Word Friday- Happiness
Beautiful. You really have summed up what we all need to remember.
Colleen recently posted..Kenmore- Why I Love Thee
“Is happiness a goal to achieve?
A shiny trophy that you win
And then admire on a shelf?”
This was my favorite idea. It made me think. If happiness sits on a shelf, it certainly can not be in our hearts. Happy Holidays to you and yours!
So true.
Gratitude leads to happiness, leads to…
it’s a feedback loop of positivity. :)
melissa recently posted..six word fridays- happiness
There were very few changes in my life that didn’t bring about better — dare I even say happy — outcomes. During those times of change, I was always convinced I’d never be happy again. Yet, it happens sometimes when and where we least expect it. Have a wonderful holiday.
MomZombie recently posted..Right now
Thanks, T. Isn’t it great when the blogosphere lifts our spirits?
Oh no, Brook! Am I becoming redundant? Some things bear repeating. :) And you are so right about how happiness spreads by reading about it!
Oh Caroline, I hadn’t thought of that. We definitely want it within, not without!
Oh I like the idea of a happiness feedback loop!
MZ- It’s great to hear that others have had that experience too. It’s a good thing to remember when we are going through a hard time. Have a great holiday as well!
xo-Molly
Thanks for your kind words, Ayala.
Well said. Thanks!
Michele recently posted..Wordles