Happiness

 

"We are all born happy. Life gets us dirty along the way, but we can clean it up. Happiness is not exuberant or noisy, like pleasure or joy; it's silent, tranquil, and gentle; it's a feeling of satisfaction inside that begins with self-love. You need to love yourself as I do, as all those who know you do ...." 

(Isabel Allende, 'The Japanese Lover'))

Writing prompts:

• Set a timer for six minutes and write about how life has 'got you dirty' along the way. 
• Then write about any ways you have tried to 'clean it up' to try to reach a state of happiness again.
• Make three lists headed 'Happiness', 'Pleasure' and 'Joy' then write down what you think are the particular qualities of each. 
• Write about a time when you, or someone else, has been 'silent, tranquil and gentle.' 
• Focus on a moment when you have felt inner satisfaction. Do you agree with the writer that such a feeling begins with self love? 
• Write about what you could do to love yourself more.

You can find other prompts on this blog on the topic of 'happiness'. Just type the word in 'Search This Blog.'