It seems quite surreal to me that I'm on review number 23. Sometimes, I feel like it's flashing before my eyes; sometimes, I'm stretched to find a topic to discuss. One of the things I've noticed throughout my journey is that depending on my current train of thought, it can greatly alter my perception and ideology on thought-provoking ideas on happiness. However, I think the ability to see darkness when it's light and light when it's dark is a profound skill on its own. Subsequently, seeing happiness in all realms and trains of thought is an important skill in the search for happiness.

Over the past few days, I've covered being conscientious, solitude, feeling overwhelmed, moving into our new house and area, impermanence, my cat Bruno, waiting, the idea of the body of a warrior and the mind of a monk, and staying on our chosen pathway.

Being conscientious - The importance of doing things for the right reasons and the battle in our minds between self-interest and selfless actions is crucial in our pursuit of happiness and contributing to the greater good of the universe. As Marcus Aurelius once said, "Just do the right thing. The rest doesn't matter."

Solitude - The act of finding solitude is a complex experience encompassing the desire to escape, reflect, and adapt. Ultimately, it becomes an essential element in our internal dialogue and happiness. It allows us to evaluate, consolidate, and find peace within ourselves, leading to personal growth and the ability to solve problems that may have been hidden previously. Ultimately, it enables us to judge ourselves and achieve a sense of balance and contentment in solitude

Feeling overwhelmed - The feeling of being overwhelmed is normal and confronting, as we were recently moving houses and having a daunting task ahead of us with outstanding building work, unpacking, and reassembling furniture, appliances, and equipment. However, it was also an opportunity to unravel our minds by starting anywhere and building from there. Understanding that happiness can be found in the process of overcoming challenges.

Ellendale - last week we finally moved into our new house, it was a significant day as, after almost three years, we finished building out new house in Upper Kedron, Brisbane. Although there are challenges ahead, it is a fulfilling and exhilarating experience to see our long-term goal becoming a reality.

Impermanence - The understanding of impermanence, or the constant change in all aspects of life, is a crucial factor in the search for happiness. It encourages letting go of attachments and expectations, appreciating the present moment, and finding contentment in the here and now. Ultimately, leading to peace and freedom.

Waiting - The act of waiting, whether it be for something special or in the pursuit of a goal, generates anticipation and desire, amplifying our appreciation and happiness upon eventually attaining what we seek. It teaches us patience and resilience in the process.

Bruno - There is something special about cats, like our 11-year-old cat Bruno, who brings tremendous happiness to our family and embodies composure, relaxation, and curiosity. He reminds us of the joy and connection animals bring to our household, creating a deep emotional connection and contributing to our understanding of happiness.

Warrior Monk - As I explore philosophy and the perception of life, I am starting to believe in the importance of balancing physical exertion with mental tranquillity. I aspire to have the body of a warrior and the mind of a monk, as it brings a profound sense of peace and happiness during moments of battle or self-improvement.

Pathways - During periods of pressure, added workload, or higher demand, it can be difficult to stay on task, continue on our chosen pathway, and move forward in the right direction. But it is important to regroup and find our way back to the path we have chosen in order to seek happiness and growth.

I think as I reflect back on these topics, what sticks out the most for me is being present and the pursuit of self improvement. Appreciating what we have right now and evaluating how and why they play such significant parts in our lives.

Thanks,

Dean