Category Archives: Uncategorized

Happiness Pathway

There was a certain kind of quietness as she played with the thistle plant. She was surrounded by the sounds of wildlife and her little giggles as she poked her finger on the plant. She could not contain her glee as a gentle breeze swirled around her body. The breeze became her shield; her giggles floated on the wind.

There was an innocence that could be seen on her face. Her mind was swept away in wonderment. She was immersed in the beauty of nature and the joy that it gave to her.

As she stood there, surrounded by the serene embrace of nature, a sense of calmness washed over her. The gentle breeze whispered through the leaves, carrying with it the sweet aroma of blooming flowers. The soft chirping of birds filled the air, creating a symphony of sounds that resonated deep within her soul.

With each step she took, she discovered new wonders. The vibrant colors of wildflowers dancing in the meadow and the warmth of the sun caressing her skin. Every aspect of nature seemed to come alive, captivating her senses and awakening a newfound appreciation for the world around her.

She couldn’t help but feel a deep connection with the natural world. It was as if she had found her place in the grand tapestry of life, a harmonious balance between herself and the environment. The simplicity and purity of nature reminded her of the beauty that exists in the most ordinary moments.

In that tranquil moment, she embraced the gift of nature’s presence. It was a reminder to cherish the simple pleasures, to find solace in the beauty that surrounds us, and to never lose sight of the innocence and wonderment that lies within each of our hearts. For in nature’s embrace, she discovered a precious sanctuary where her spirit could soar and her worries could fade away like the setting sun.

So let us all take a moment to appreciate the exquisite beauty of the natural world around us. Let us allow ourselves to be swept away in wonderment, to immerse ourselves in its majesty, and to find the innocence that can be seen on the faces of those who truly appreciate its magnificence.

Happiness may not always be present in adult life. As we grow up, our expectations about life broaden, making it difficult to find contentment. We continue to long for a carefree life in a constantly changing world. This beautiful world is filled with challenges, which teach us important lessons about life and how to coexist with others.

“…there are times when my spirit is filled with joy.

I can see a gesture of kindness; it moves me to tears.

I see a helping hand doing the right thing at just the right time;

it becomes a ray of light in my loving heart.”

Excerpt from poem, “Inside View”

When her happiness starts to fade, she reminisces about the special moment she had with a thistle plant. The simple act of reaching out and touching the plant brought her joy and a sense of unity with nature. It was a uncomplicated gesture that brought happiness into her life.

Her pathway in search of happiness.

“I feel happiness when someone greets me with a smile in their voice.

I feel happiness when I get a warm embrace in time of need.

I feel happiness when a prayer revives my faith.

I feel happiness when I reach out to help someone.

I feel happiness when a term of endearment warms my heart.

I feel happiness when I am reminded of a favorite moment in time

and it makes me laugh.”

Excerpt from poem, “Happiness Pathway”

Life has a way of reminding us that it is the small things that can bring us contentment. We have a hunger inside us that can be nourished by inspiration. It is important not to overlook the little things in life.

While watching a tennis match on January 28, 2018, during the Australian Open in Melbourne, the author was inspired to write her first book of poetry, titled My Branch of Life. The match was between Caroline Wozniacki and Carla Suarez Navarro, and as they showcased their agility on the court, words started flowing through the author’s mind without any apparent reason.

The writer describes how watching the players’ speed during the tennis match ignited a spark in her.  Although she no longer runs or jogs, she does walk at a moderate pace. The writer’s subconscious may be hinting that she is missing out on the fast-paced life and that time is passing by quickly.

The author grabbed a pen and wrote down thoughts about aging, comparing herself to the life of a tree.

This content is a personal reflection on the experience of aging and the realization of getting older. The author expresses a disconnect between her youthful spirit and the physical changes she is experiencing. She mentions writing her first poem titled “The Magic of Living” as a way to connect with her aging self. The excerpt is accompanied by a background image depicting the symbolic Angel Oak tree.

After sharing her poem with family and friends, she received positive and encouraging feedback.  She was especially pleased when a niece commented on the symbolism of the tree in the poem, relating it to the beauty and long life of the Angel Oak tree. This conversation made her realize that even those younger than her can connect with the feelings she expressed about aging.

In addition, it was those comments that led the writer on a journey to South Carolina in search of an Angel Oak tree. She found the majestic tree on Johns Island; the tree is centuries old and full of life. The author stood in awe of its beauty and marveled at its far-reaching limbs and branches. Looking at the tree, the words in her poem gained deeper significance.

The author reflects on how the Angel Oak tree inspired her to contemplate her own life. She saw the tree as a symbol of longevity, natural beauty, and resilience.

“I never knew what to expect as I began to age…

But just like the tree that continues to hold its ground

I find coping mechanisms to weather the storms of time.”

From poem, “The Magic of Living”

The author does not have thoughts about living a very long life like the beautiful Angel Oak tree; a tree that is centuries old.  But she realizes the importance to embrace the past and enjoy each day that she has left on this earth.  The wisdom gained is profound; it will help her as she moves forward in life.

The poems in My Branch of Life give a glimpse of how the writer looks at life.  The poems share her memories, too; memories that will never grow old.

“I feel my passion for life.

Yes, my feelings are my treasures;

my keepsakes – that are buried deep in my soul.

And, as long as I live, they will be branches in my life.”

From poem, “Keepsakes”

Margaret Joeline Brinson, Author, My Branch of Life