March 20, 2025 - "Oh the Things You Can Find if You Don't Stay Behind!"

The Dr. Seuss Quote for today is, "Oh the things you can find if you don't stay behind!" I like this quote because it encourages me to find the things I care about and then to get out there and do what I can to lead and make a difference. I want to encourage you today to not let anything or anyone make you "stay behind" - you matter - this is the absolute truth - and you have so much to offer which will make our world a better place!

And, since today is the International Day of Happiness, it is the perfect day to find something wonderful which will help you be happy and then to get out there and spread happiness! You may be wondering, "what is the International Day of Happiness", well, Nationaltoday (dot) com has this to say about it - "A holiday called International Day of Happiness may sound a bit infantile to the uninitiated. Perhaps you’re imagining children singing ‘If you’re happy and you know it…’ or people gleefully dancing under a smiling sun and rainbows. While you’re not entirely wrong — who doesn’t like a good sing-song session — the truth is there’s much more to this delightful day than just smiles and good vibes."

They go on to say, "Everyone has their own definition of happiness, or things which make them happy, this is why there are no traditions set in stone for this day. Happiness is about feeling content and not having to fake your feelings, so whatever makes you happy, you do you! Being internally happy is key to being satisfied with your surroundings, so challenge yourself and be open to new people and experiences. Cherish the little things, and be grateful for everything in that moment."

Now for some information about how being "happy" impacts your health and your life - did you know . . . 

• Researchers have shown just 30 minutes of daily complaining can physically damage your brain. Listening to someone constantly complain also negatively affects brain function.
• Certain types of food can create at least quick boosts of happiness. Foods like milk, chicken, and nuts contain tryptophan, which increases the production of serotonin, a chemical linked to feelings of calm and happiness.
• Researchers have found eating chocolate causes the brain to release endorphins, which are chemicals which make us feel good. 
• Researchers have shown coffee makes drinkers happier by stimulating their response to positive words. Scientists believe the caffeine stimulates part of the brain connected to positivity.
• Expressing gratitude has been shown to be a significant  stress buster and generates a more optimistic and happy outlook on life.
• Happy people have their own share of challenges and tragedies; the difference is how they cope with those challenges. People with a more optimistic attitude are more likely to bounce back from their challenges. They were also able to stabilize their heart rates more quickly than those who were more negative.
• Petting a dog or cat or other furry pets releases oxytocin (the “cuddle hormone”), which creates instant happiness. Oxytocin also lowers blood pressure and reduces stress  levels.
• Being compassionate to others--as well as oneself--leads to greater happiness.
• The term “fake it until you make it” is true for happiness. Researchers note even when faking a smile, people start to feel happier.

So, eat chocolate, drink coffee, eat chocolate, spend time with a pet, did I mention, eat chocolate, and be thankful! You will find more happiness facts at this link.

Like I said yesterday, "What the future holds we do not know right now, but we are able to put one foot in front of the other, make plans for things which are most likely to help us have a secure future, and choose to move forward. Don't give up!" When we do this, we will find we don't "stay behind", and we are able to find happiness! 

So, once again today I want to send you my virtual "hug" - You matter. You deserve to be loved and are loved - I love you! You make our world a better place - we need you in this world. I hope you have people around you who tell you these things, but if not, please let me be someone who does. Yes, I say this every day, but these words are true and will always be so. You will find the video at this link.