An Uncommon Pursuit of Happiness
By Bill Cottringer
We all have a common aim—
Less sadness, more happiness;
But that’s the end of common.
So, what is not so common?
The unique purpose we find,
The different paths we take,
The separate views we have;
All that we think we know,
All we believe & expect,
And all the results we get.
What exactly is happiness?
Power, influence and fame;
Health, wealth and wisdom,
Peace from mind turmoil,
Gentle softening of heart;
More smiles than frowns,
Solving hard problems,
Resolving sticky conflicts,
Using creativity to move;
Getting some recognition,
Being treated with respect,
Shown some appreciation;
Understanding why and how;
Moments of good conversation,
Sharing secrets & suspicions;
Seeing what matters most,
Being with family & friends,
Loving and being loved,
Making a real difference;
Feeling good more than not,
By how many people I help;
Maybe just about anything,
Or maybe even everything,
Fore sure always growing;
What is my main purpose?
Getting all these things,
By giving them to others,
As an uncommon way,
Of just being thankful.