A special moment

"Life is to important to be taken seriously"

One of the most effective ways to improve your mood is to remember a special moment. I've always taken a lot of pictures and occasionaly some videos on holidays and at other special times. I've gotten great memories by looking back at those pictures and videos.

This past winter while on vacation in Mexico I did something else that actually serves to help me recall a particular moment that was even more memorable...
One morning I was sitting by myself absolutely enjoying the scene in front of me and thinking to myself, I've just got to make sure I never forget how beautiful and special this moment is....
Not having my camera with me, but having a notepad and pen I made this entry....

I am sitting here on a picture perfect morning, by myself at the resort I am staying at. Although it is early morning the sun has already warmed me so that I am enjoying the shade from two palm trees. A very gently breeze is coming towards me off the ocean and the cooling effect could not be more perfect. I can taste the ocean on my lips and feel the clean air on my skin.

It is still early morning and there are no tourists around, I have the the terrace to myself. In front of me is the white sands of the beach and a spectacular view of a big blue ocean with sunlight sparkling on the water. This is 'postcard perfect'.

I am soaking up the sounds of the ocean waves, rolling into the shore and splashing against the beach. I've never really noticed the rhythm of the ocean before. And I'm not sure if I have ever heard a more pleasing and calming sound.

Far out at sea, I can see a shrimp trawler and two jet skis flying across the water. I can also see several of the rental sailboats with their colorful sails and the para sail boats. This is a most peaceful and serene moment.

As I look overhead and above the palm trees, a formation of large birds (Pelicans ) are gliding by. Occasionaly, I am joined by a few pigeons, always on the look out for anything that might make a morning meal.

This has to be, one of those times that later on, I will say..."this is as good as it ever gets". I have never felt more connected to my surroundings or more at peace with myself. Who knew that I could find such contentment sitting quietly by myself and doing nothing!

When I read that, it puts me back to that exact moment in a way that pictures and even videos can't do because it includes my thoughts and feelings. This is what I call 'happiness on demand'. You should try it when you have one of those memorable moments. I wish I had done it when my son was growing up!

Eduardo

P.S. Please don't accuse me of journaling..... that just wouldn't be manly!