Life has a length, width and height. Length is the number of years we get to live, width is the quality of life at a specific time, height is the sense of happiness and joy that we experience.
We have some control over the length, a lot more control over the width, and the height is our reward.
It is amazing how much effort we spend on the length of our lives, and not much on improving the width of it.
I had a girlfriend that I lost to cancer less than 4 years ago. Before then all I could do was to take her out on dates, so we could enjoy those moments without thinking about future. I knew when I’d come back from University that summer she may not be there. That’s exactly what happened.
After that I am thankful for just being alive and try to enjoy the most simple pleasures of life. People, dogs, cats, birds, Art, Nature, Culture, Music, Dance, Science, food, drinks, … .
I have a younger brother that goes out partying with 10 dollars in his pocket, and I have to spent 5- 6 times more to get the same experience. Some people spend thousands more to get the same experience. The older we get the more we lose the capacity of appreciating and enjoying life.
If I can see, taste, feel, hear, if I can go out spend 2 dollars on a good cup of coffee, flirt with the barista, come out feel the rain drops on my face, sit outside and dream about the future, if I can help others and make a difference in somebody’s life, If I can give back to the community, I am already a happy man.
If I have goals, ambition, and persistence I am already a successful man too.
Rastin