Posted in Happiness
I saw this movie a while ago called Wristcutters: A Love Story. I’m not recommending it, it really wasn’t that good. But on this day, the day that I contemplate what I’m most thankful for, I thought of this movie.
It’s set in a surreal afterlife where the people that commit suicide wind up, stay with me here. This afterlife doesn’t look like heaven or hell; it’s just a place that looks a lot like our normal life, except that everything is just ok. The pizza tastes ok, your apartment is just ok, your job is just ok--not terrible but not wonderful either. Just ok. Even the cinematography adds to the view that everything is kind of blah.
Even though that movie was technically a love story, and not really a lesson on how we should live our lives, I went away with a lesson anyway. It occurred to me that lots of people live the life they have right now like that Wristcutter’s afterlife, viewing everything as not good enough. Not terrible but not great either.
I happen to think the life I’m living is pretty much heaven. I’m making the most of it because I think of it as a great gift, and I'm grateful for it. Whether or not you believe that there is another life after this, why not be sure to enjoy this one, appreciate it, relish it. You know, just in case.
Hoping you all have a wonderful holiday enjoying the company of the ones you love.
Related Posts:
Forget Your Troules, C’mon Get Happy
Six Ways to Feel Happier, Be Healthier (From AARP)
Can’t keep track of my non-existent posting schedule? Subscribe—it’s free!
Happy Thanksgiving good wishes back to you and your family!
I appreciate your upbeat and insightful perspectives. I've seen a couple pictures of your dad, who looks to have a real fun loving energy about him, so I see where you get some of your enthusiasm for life.
Posted by: Rick | November 24, 2011 at 06:09 AM
@Rick: You're right about my dad. Many years ago the Vietnamese woman that cuts his hair told him, "Larry, you are sunshine." He is--I hope it is hereditary.
Posted by: Retired Syd | November 24, 2011 at 07:34 AM
Beautiful post Syd. Happy Thanksgiving!
Posted by: Jacq | November 24, 2011 at 08:16 AM
Nicely stated. Retirement isn't the gift - it's what we choose to do with that status that is the real gift that we give to ourselves and our loved ones.
Happy Thanksgiving to all.
Posted by: Banjo Steve | November 24, 2011 at 09:33 AM
Ditto Syd!! Have a wonderful TG!!!!
Posted by: Bridget | November 24, 2011 at 12:32 PM