Happiness is a deeply undervalued emotion. It lies hidden under layers of
obligation and fear and the disappointment of unmet desires. There are very
few who know that the secret of eternal youth lies in a heart that has been
beaten by and has weathered every storm, and yet still is able to remain
buoyant with laughter.

In these days of darkness and war when we are helpless to do anything that
can turn the tide on the worlds madness, it is important to allow ourselves
to weep the tears that sorrow brings and to feel the anguished emotions of
the deep. And then, we must balance this sorrow by taking simple delight in
small things. Like a snowdrop rising fearless through the frozen ground,
your joy will help to brighten and bring beauty to a world grown barren. To
accept the heartbreak that life inevitably brings is wise, to fall under its
weight is foolish indeed.

Cultivate gratitude and the enjoyment of simple pleasures. Weep your tears,
and then utter a simple 'thank you'. For the extraordinary privilege of a
human life, with all its pain and wonder, is a rare and miraculous gift.
Old age will be upon you in but the blink of an eye and then you will be
gone from this, oh, so beautiful planet. When that moment comes, simply
say.... 'So brief ... so bitter ... so sweet ... thank You. Thank You
for everything'