There are days when I really have to remind myself that happiness is a journey. Have you ever said, “When I complete this task or finish this project I will be happy because I will have time to do all that I need to do.” As I write this I find myself laughing as I take a look at my busy life and wonder where the time goes and how I will ever get it all done. I am the mother of 3 wonderful children ages 11, 7 and 5. They are healthy, smart and strong minded individuals who bring many gifts to my life. I often find myself thinking of the things these 3 children are here to teach me as I run the gauntlet of parenting, filled with moments of joy, heartache, laughter, togetherness and all those other wonderful feelings parenting brings.

Life is a journey we all take; some of us are blessed to have children in our lives who often say things just as they see them. If I ever want an honest opinion on how I look, I warily ask my 11 year old daughter, who is all too happy to share it with me, whether I like it or not. If it is a reminder that I am spending too much time working, then it is my 5 and 7 year olds who, when told not to bother me when I am on the phone, inform me I have been on the phone all afternoon and that they need me, “NOW,” in their own sweet way. Thank goodness I have these anchors in my life to bring me back to the important things that I need to focus on.

I had the privilege of attending a funeral of a family friend a while ago, he was an 80 year old man who had spent his life devoted to his family, religion and anyone in need. As his adult children took the stand to share their thoughts on their father I couldn’t help thinking about what my children would be saying at my funeral. I then got to thinking of how I am living my life daily; am I walking the walk and not just talking the talk? Do I really give my children the time they need for them to know that I will always be there for them? Am I showing them that everyday is a gift and that we need to get as much out of each day as we can, that we need to show love for others through our thoughts and actions.

I remember a few years ago I would say, when my kids are in school I will have so much more time for me, I will be able to do all the things that I can’t do now yet as I send my 3 to school each day I find myself busier than ever. I have found other things to fill my time with, other things to focus my attention on. I have come to the conclusion that no matter where I am in life, I will always be busy and truthfully, I love being busy. I love having a purpose everyday and I love helping others. I know that today is a gift and that I need to take a moment to enjoy it and look for the good in each day. I am grateful for so many wonderful things in my life, it is in the moments of quiet reflection I realize that I have much to be happy about. My life is scattered with precious moments and if I really take the time to reflect, although my journey may be busy, it will be a happy one.

Just over a decade ago, I was at a time in my life where things were a little harder than I had ever imagined life to be. I was sad, lonely and wondered if a light would ever go on again in my life. I am pleased to tell you that of course it did, but it was during that very difficult time I learned to really count the good things that happen in my life. If you are going through a difficult situation I would encourage you as an individual, as a family, as a community to find one good thing in each day that you can be thankful for. Some days may be harder than others but write them down, share them and remember them because “Happiness is a journey not a destination.”