Savouring the Minutiae

It seems somewhat tragic that we live our lives always looking forward to the next big, life-altering event—i.e. graduation, marriage or the birth of a baby. More tragic is the belief that happiness will be assured if only we are successful in these pursuits, but what if we aren’t ‘successful’ in these very conventional ways? Where is happiness to be procured then? More importantly, is happiness actually assured by attempting to fulfill these conventional expectations? 

I believe that happiness has the possibility of manifesting in the above-mentioned experiences, but, as with most others, there is no guarantee. I think lasting fulfillment and joy manifest much more reliably when we don’t demand the existence of such specific circumstances. Better to take whatever place we find ourselves in and choose to be thankful for whatever is working and thoughtfully meet whatever challenges we have, without fanning the flames of our disappointment, anger and/or resentment.

One way of making the best of whatever life we’ve been given rests in cultivating an increased sensory awareness, a greater degree of sensitivity both to our internal life and the environment around us. 

Living this smaller existence, really getting into the minutiae of our lives, exposes us to a vast array of interesting feelings and phenomena, which hold potential for enriching our lives, for feeding our senses and breeding satisfaction. Living with a greater sense of appreciation for the complexity and profundity of this gift, helps orient us in the direction of happiness and fulfillment.

Small things like watching the sun go down, really soaking in the whole experience—the water, hills, sky and of course the rapidly shifting light display. Or try being really present when you wash the dishes. The smell of the soap, the iridescence of the bubbles, the warmth of the water and transformation of the dishes from soiled to clean. Both can be very satisfying sensory experiences helping us slow down long enough to be present to all the multifarious richness that is available in such minutiae. These things help make me happy and content.

There is no real need for grandiose fireworks, sensory over-loaded movies or way too architecturally inspired food. These, too, can be fun, but not necessary for happiness and long-term fulfillment.

Small living, is rich living in my experience. 

Savour the minutiae of your life and see for yourself how much you don’t need to be happy, joyful and satisfied!

“Man’s happiness really lies in contentment.” –Mahatma Gandhi

“The world is full of people looking for spectacular happiness while they snub contentment.”

 –Doug Larson