Joy in the Journey

We recently embarked on the journey of a new year—2013. This year marks a different point in life for each of us. For some, this year may be marked by a significant milestone such as a birth, the start of a new school, a graduation, a marriage, retirement, or a new job. For others it may seem like just another in a lineup of years that pass somewhat routinely from one to another.

As humans, we tend to mark our lives through milestones, or destinations. When we take a trip, we’re eager to get to our final destination. When we’re anticipating one of the milestones in the first paragraph, we can get frustrated by the situations (and sometimes even people) that get in the way, or the small things that need to be accomplished while we’re looking forward to a significant event.

I have been trying to view the journey differently in recent years, seeing life not as a series of distant goals, but daily evaluating what I can learn, enjoy, and appreciate about the here and now; about each step of the journey. I like the quote, “The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything, they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.”

Yes, there can be joy in the journey, in the people we meet, the decisions we face, the unexpected circumstances that threaten to derail our carefully laid plans, or the surprise opportunities to notice and appreciate the little things each and every day.

Best wishes as you journey through 2013—may you find happiness in making the most of everything that comes your way!