Dear friends,
I know better, but for some reason I started to watch the morning and evening news— again. I didn't even realize it, but watching it was stealing my joy. I was beginning to think our world was only filled with dread and uncertainty; that there were more self-absorbed, crazy people living on this earth than caring, loving, and good-hearted ones.
Thankfully, it didn't take much to change my mind, to once again see the world through more rose colored lenses. Last weekend, I volunteered at the local chamber sponsored Holiday Festival in the village of Islamorada, Florida. Since its unlikely snow will fall from the sky in the tropics, a signature event is when the village physically trucks in tons of manmade snow. Throughout the evening, 100's of kids had the time of their childhood tossing snowballs at one another, rolling around, and sledding down the mini mound of white stuff—a reminder life can be filled with awe and wonder. Listening to the giggles and observing flying arms and legs, I was beginning to lighten up. To not take life so seriously. I saw pure joy on the faces of our youth, their parents, and grandparents and it was contagious.
The surprises and smiles didn't stop there. Another highlight of the evening was watching the tropical Christmas parade wind its way around the marina's boat lined narrow road. Moms, dads, kids, and furry creatures with four legs were dressed in festive attire madly waving from their homespun floats while shouting and zeroing in on family and friends. "Hey Debbie, I'll meet you at the hot dog stand at 9:00 pm." "Hey George, thanks for the great Thanksgiving Day dinner." Laughter and holiday spirit could be felt everywhere.
I want to live in a simpler world where people aren't doing crazy things and hurting one another. I want world peace. I want to have more light-hearted moments. Not just for me, but for everyone.
Seeing the brighter side of life sometimes means switching off the beloved computer or TV and spending more time with humanity—listening, learning—perhaps even participating in the silliness and the fun. Although great, positive human interest stories rarely make headlines, it doesn't mean they're not the best thing to happen since Belgium chocolate...and fake snow. Great stories. Great fun. There waiting for us to be a part of them. What are you waiting for?
Here's to your good health, happiness and of course, plenty of play and peas.
Ever grateful,
Cheryl Karpen
Author
The Eat Your Peas Collection
Cheryl can be personally reached at T) 877-224-7886 or cherylkarpen@aol.com
