From the inside out

When we look at external circumstances to generate happiness and well-being, we only need look at their long-term effects to determine the effectiveness of this approach. We tell others that we will be so happy when we find the right job or the perfect mate. When they do show up the emotions attached to them are short-lived. We settle into the situation and it becomes a part of our daily lives. The high that we felt at its initial occurrence has dropped significantly. It is time to look for new ways to find elusive happiness. What we may be doing is attempting to fill a hole within us by seeking external gratification. Try building that foundation from within independent of what is happening outside of you. Start each day in gratitude for what you have. At this time of the year I look at the gifts that nature provides in new life and beauty. The sources of gratitude are limitless. Abraham Lincoln once said that people are as happy as they make up their minds to be. I used to despise that statement until I realized what it truly meant. My happiness comes from a decision to live life knowing that my source is not my job, my relationship, or the size of my bank account. There is a presence that provides for all of my needs at every level. When I live in a state of happiness, joy, and freedom all is well. This doesn't mean I ignore what is going on around me. It means that I now have ways to meet these situations head on knowing I have what is needed to face anything in my life. How are you building your life from the inside out?