The 2 Realities we Live In

I worked on my list of things that make me happy - it was fairly long and included things like,

Reading a good book
Spending quality time with someone I like
Food to feed my children
A hot shower on a cold day
Creating something
Accomplishing something
Reaching a goal
Words of encouragement
Watching my children grow and learn...

When I went through this list and eliminated anything that wasn't ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY for my happiness, my list transformed to simply a few items.  I sincerely considered my foundation asking myself repeatedly, "What is VITAL to my happiness?" or "Could I be happy without this?"

Even some of the things on my list that cause me the greatest joy were crossed off!

As I considered what remained, a connective theme emerged.  This 'theme' led me to the following thought:  We consist of two distinct realities.  The outer or the physical reality, where we typically reside.  This outer reality is the basis of most of our choices and the driving force behind what we do.

There is another reality that seems to exist.  That would be our inner reality.  This is where we live in a spiritual way.  This is where we face the depths of what we believe and why.  It reveals our deepest desires and our purest purposes.

Even though this inner reality seems to 'play second fiddle' to the physical reality, it shouts out the answer to the question at hand - What makes me happy?

These 3 things were all that remained on my list:

Being valued/loved
Loving/valuing others
Relational spiritual connection 


I am certain that these thoughts are  not conclusive - I have so much to learn.  I thought it valuable to walk through this process and believe that it's a beginning to a deeper understanding of what's important to me in living this life.

I hope that you found it beneficial as well.  I would love to hear what remained on your list.

Happy New Year and many happy wishes for making what's important to you a priority this year - which in turn will also promote fulfillment and joy for you and will benefit those around you.