THE UNFORESEEN GIFT-BEARER

I had a lovely experience yesterday. Just as I stepped out of my unit to take the trash to the trash room, my new neighbor was about to enter his unit, and he offered to do that for me. When I politely refused because I couldn't imagine he was being other than nice, he insisted. It didn't take him a third time asking...and clearly we both were pleased with our self and with each other about the whole thing.

Later I remembered that that was Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, a day we are asked to do for others, give aid to a stranger...or a friend in need. And I was touched by that young man's willingness to step up, insistent even, in doing what Rev. King exemplified.

I pondered how we cannot self will happiness especially when it is for the benefit of self alone. I wondered if that isn't the path of certain discontent, the search for happiness at the disregard of all else or others.

We are taught, and I do believe, that true happiness is a given when someone else is the benefactor of our thoughts, words and/or deeds. It wouldn't surprise me to learn that happiness nearly always comes uncontrived...hoped for, of course, wanted for sure...but upon receipt, it's WOW, I never dreamed this could be mine.

Interestingly, and as an aside, it's the one seemingly causing us angst that is revealed as our gift-bearer. When we are graced with the gift of giving over is when our nemesis becomes our angel. We would do well to name him/her our angel at the outset of resistance for it surely softens ego's strident voice.

To remember to do for others, friend or foe, as our everyday goal...ah, there's the pearl, the road to inner happiness. And, who's kidding whom, the road less taken. (Remember to laugh, love and laugh...nothing better helps us to remember our goal.)

Thank you.