Who, Me?

Each of us has a different idea of happiness. Each of us has certain items that speak to us as a token of fulfillment. Sometimes we are so busy that we overlook treating ourselves symbolically in way that match our accomplishments. Take a piece of paper and number the page from 1 to 25. List 25 things that represent contentment to you. Don’t take the time to rank them in any order of importance; just capture the first 25 things that come to mind. For example:

1. Green tea
2. Extra pillows on the bed
3. Toys for the children who visit
4. Family photos
5. An herb garden that attracts butterflies, and so forth...

Once you have your own list, review it and select something that you can use to celebrate contentment. Choose something that has special meaning to you, because it reminds you of an experience or time in your life that was happy. It can be an object, color, texture, view. In your journal describe this item in specific detail. How it looks, feels, reassures you. Find out why it comforts you. Write about this special item's history. Speak quietly to this private symbol of contentment.

Then whenever you encounter this item in real life, you will be reminded of life's rewards. Or when you are under stress, you can visualize the symbol and draw on its power to bring contentment back into your life.