How to Be Happy to Be Alive

It is wonderful to be alive. Enjoy every day as it comes; roll with the punches. 

Sure, life has its ups and downs. In fact, sometimes life brings too many downs.Take solace in knowing that no one escapes this life without experiencing some bumpsand bruises along the way. Once we realize that tomorrow follows today, and all thetribulations and stresses we are experiencing diminish over time, we can be happier.Remember that we can enable happiness starting in our own minds. Problems and griefand troubles will come our way, but our coping mechanism can kick into gear if we justlearn how to manage.I've had my share of difficulties and losses. Over the years, I have honed my copingskills to focus less on the negative. My friends would tell you that I was the writerof the "worry book." But I can honestly say that I practice what I preach - try someof these steps - it helps tremendously. Look at me! I'm self taught and getting better.Consider refining some of these thoughts for yourself. Live life to the fullest todayand permit tomorrow to happen . . .1 - Use your best china often, not just for special occasions, with the ones you love.Don't save your finest for rare occasions or for those that don't really matter. Youcannot take it with you in the end anyway.2 - Light candles and fix special meals for Sunday dinners. Adjust your schedule tomake these something special. Your loved ones will remember this in years to come.3 - Sleep on the nicest sheets and bed linens that you have. Why are you saving them?4 - Wear your fancy lingerie now. You can get more for a special occasion or vacation.Celebrate your relationship today in every way.5 - Don't be so serious about everything; never berate yourself if things don't goperfectly. No one really cares. And if they do, so what?6 - Think that "growing old beats all alternatives!"7 - Smile a lot; smile often; smile in the grocery store or in a restaurant for andwith those who help you. Consider smiling all the time. It's catchy and you'll feelgreat.8 - Breathe in fresh air and go for a walk. Get outside the four walls daily. Thereare wonders to see. Tiny miracles are all around you.9 - Think that the best is yet to come - maybe it's not specifically for you butrather for a loved one - whatever, however, whoever - the best is yet to come andbelieve it!10 - Remember that the only thing in life of real worth is that you are loved andthat you love. If you do not have a significant someone as an object of your affection,put your heart into the family or even a pet.11 - Get passionate about something.12 - Will yourself to be happy - and you will be!

This article, recipes and horse care and how to articles by the Old Gray Mare canbe found at www.DressYourHorse.com.