From “Julie’s Gems”: June 2002

What makes you happy? It seems like a simple question, doesn’t it? For me it’s being surrounded by my dogs and cats, spending time with family, reading or writing a good novel, eating Chubby Hubby ice cream, singing, and watching the Lakers win the championship 3 years in a row (Woo-hoo, go Lakers!). For some it’s being surrounded by their children, or sitting quietly and enjoying a sunset. So what’s not simple about my question? Peer pressure. For example, I know a lot of people make fun of me for having so many pets and make comments about the pet hair on my clothes or that my house must smell with all those animals. Or, as with my sister who has 5 children, she often receives rude comments such as, “Don’t you know where babies come from?” I really do have some sort of point. Don’t let other people’s petty comments rob you of what makes you happy. If they don’t understand it, it doesn’t mean you should abandon your happiness. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying this gives pedophiles, abusers, or drug addicts free license to do whatever they want just b/c it makes them feel better. But don’t refuse to watch cartoons when you’re over 20 if they still make you laugh. I know I’ve been tempted not to get that one extra kitten just b/c other people won’t understand, but when I really think about it, I know the little bundle of joy takes away the blues and brings in the sunshine. Okay, that was really corny! But you get what I’m saying, right? I’ll break it down: life is very short, so don’t let the negative comments of others keep you from playing in mud puddles. Live life. Love life. Enjoy life.