“The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.” Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese Buddhist monk
This week brings celebrations, family gatherings, BBQs, fireworks, and a holiday weekend commemorating the Declaration of Independence signed on July 4, 1776. Wow!! Freedom. Happiness. Independence. A time for reflection. Having celebrated many 4th of July’s I wondered what the spiritual meaning for this momentous day was. I found a site called Forever Conscious created by Tanaaz who is an intuitive astrologer and she shared how energetically powerful this coming week will be – “As the Cancerian sun and Sirius meet the first week of July becomes a powerful and potent time for making conscious changes, spiritual advancements and bringing new insights into the world.” Perhaps it’s no coincidence that the signing of the Declaration of Independence occurred during this time.
Once again the universe is providing us an opportunity to change. I wonder how our forefathers felt as they presented the Declaration of Independence to be ratified by the Second Continental Congress. Were they happy after so many hard fought battles? Perhaps in the moment they were! What an accomplishment. Our democratic freedoms are to be cherished and not taken for granted. I’m happy to be here now and saddened by the divisiveness in our country. I know that we can make different choices. Recently a dear friend reminded me that happiness is a choice. How we respond to experiences is a choice even those that create challenge and struggle. HRH the Dalai Lama has said that “Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.” Thoughts and beliefs create things. Why not choose to BE happy? I realize that there may be moments that knock our socks off, so to speak, but how we respond to the unexpected surprises is a choice we can make, isn’t it? When I feel happy it’s easier to feel grateful and see the many blessings in my life. It’s easier to seek understanding and feel compassion.
How often have you felt out of sorts and made a choice to focus more consciously on feeling happy, grateful, kind, loving, or compassionate? Did it shift your response and attitude? When I’m in a funk I have to consciously make an effort to stop, take a few deep breaths and then shift my focus. It’s an ongoing practice for me. Remember, we are free to BE happy! The Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle has said that, “Happiness depends upon ourselves.”
I trust as you celebrate and enjoy your holiday that there is much laughter, joy, and love. Happiness is a choice and depends on you! I’m sending you lots of love and holding space for you. Please stay safe and cool. Remember to hydrate!
I’m available for private coaching and channeled information sessions at Storm Wisdom on Tuesdays from 1p – 6p by appointment. Please call Storm Wisdom, (602)334-1204 to schedule. I’m also available by phone or Zoom. To schedule please go to victoriabarna.com.