The word " happifying" keeps presenting itself to me...I thought, "is this a real word?" I asked my daughter, a college student, if this was a real word and she was pretty sure it isn't. Still, it won't go away. So I googled it and found that it is an un-word so to speak. Actually, there was a definition on unwords.com (where the mission is "Changing the English language one word at a time.")
The origin of happifying comes from happy and gratifying, sort of a hybrid.
Well, I ask myself why this word keeps creeping into my consciousness...I realize that the really gratifying tasks in life are when we're helping someone else. I mean really helping someone else. A life of service. Hmmm....let me be honest here and confess that I haven't been of real service in a long time. I love painting and it's rewarding when I do a painting and I'm satisfied with the results, and then someone else tells me they think the painting is gorgeous. Yes, that's fulfilling. However, I look at the real caregivers in the world who are selfless and genuinely giving individuals and I know I should be doing more. Ok, maybe the word "should" isn't correct. What I mean is if I want to experience happiness on a more regular basis I need to be of service more often. "How" is the question. Probably for you beneficent folks out there this comes naturally and so you don't have to look real hard for ways to serve. I, on the other hand, struggle to pull my head out of my *** and think of someone else. I'm seriously thinking of working as a part time caregiver for the elderly. I'll report back when I've made some progress in this area.
In the meantime, I think this painting of big chunky roses is "happifying".
Peace,
Susan
3 comments:
See, I truly believe that it doesn't matter how one contributes to make the world a better place, as long as one does. Art and beauty give people great pleasure, raise spirit, nourishes the soul. Art is in no way secondary to community service. Id' say follow you passion and paint. You can like my friend Isabelle raise money for Charity by donating paintings. It's all good!
I can wait to read more of your blog and discover your work.
Thanks so much Corine, I needed to hear that!
i've had the same kind of thoughts lately. maybe my true path to happiness is through doing for others. since i lost my job i've been spending a bit too much time feeling sorry for myself when there is so much good i could be doing for others. i really love what corine said in her comment, though!!!
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