Can You Find Happiness and Gratitude in Every Moment of Your Life Just as It Is Now?

Or is life too complicated to be happy and thankful?

I walked on the paved trail alongside the creek this morning. Beautiful and sacred Mount Tamalpais is keeping guard over all who pass by.

There were quite a few others out for exercise. A young dad with his son riding a tiny two-wheeler alongside his dad while he jogs. I overhear the boy asking his dad questions about running the bases, sparking my memories.

A couple in their 60s is walking two dogs, one a Golden Retriever, Buttercup. I had to stop and chat as I missed my Golden, Merlin. He’s with hubby in Arizona while I visit family and friends in California.

Two beautiful women, probably in their 20s, jog by. Strong and energetic.

I remember those days. Running was my go-to form of exercise throughout my 30s-50s.

I don’t miss the days of running, though I enjoyed it immensely then.

I ran in 12K races several times a year, so I’d have a challenge to train for and give me a reason to improve.

I ran the San Francisco Bay to Breakers for many years — the third Sunday in May each year. One year, I even placed in the top 10% of finishers.

It was more of a party than a race, with all the costumed runners and a few naked ones, as well. That was a fun time.

Now, I hike, walk, and play pickleball to keep me healthy. I’m happy to take a slower course now to stay in shape. Plus, I enjoy these activities, and I’m so grateful for every step.

The young dad who passed by with his little boy — so sweet in their adoring relationship.

I loved it when my boys were young. It was such a busy time — Little League games to attend in the Spring, soccer in the Fall. School days, homework, carpooling, mothering. It was all wonderous — then.

Of course, hectic and, at times, stressful.

Those days are behind me, and as much as I enjoyed them, I don’t miss them. Mostly — I enjoyed them.

Most of the tough times are forgotten. I’ve accepted the ones I haven’t forgotten as a part of life. We don’t get to choose everything that happens to us. We must surrender to what life brings and do our best.

I’m not suggesting that we walk around with a foolish grin, pretending that everything is rosy.

Our loved ones die, people lose their jobs, and some are diagnosed with life-threatening diseases. These are serious and frightening events.

We must feel our emotions — sadness, grief, and fear. We can’t deny our feelings.

My oldest son, Anthony, died eight years ago at age 36. I miss him and tell him every day how much I love him. It helps me feel close to him. I’m still grieving and will be until I leave this earth.

Acceptance of what is is critical. Acceptance allows healing to begin.

Still, is it possible to find joy and gratitude even with and through the pain?

It is.

I have many lovely memories that I cherish. I’m blessed to have been so fortunate to have had 36 precious years with him. I’m blessed to have my younger son, Nick — the light in my life.

Over 50 years after we broke up as teenagers, my high school boyfriend and I reunited ten years ago. We married and settled into a comfortable, retired life.

Hubby has a few challenges — a bad knee is one, and he has difficulty walking. I have taken over more responsibilities he can no longer handle. Again, accepting what life brings and knowing it’s part of the process of being on earth helps ease the way.

I’m enjoying my life thoroughly — just as it is now and grateful for all of it.

Writing on Medium keeps me busy. Walking Merlin every morning, hiking when the weather is cooler, and pickleball games several times a week keep my body happy.

Are you content where you are in your life? Have you settled into a routine that pleases you?

If you’re young and in career or parenting mode — appreciate every moment. I know it’s cliche — but time truly does fly.

Go for your dreams. Keep your vision for what you want — clear and close. But, do not only look to the future.

Enjoy every day. Every beat. We don’t know what the next moment will bring. Or the next breath. Stay present.

We can relax. Everything we want is right here in the present moment. — Thich Nhat Hanh.