A Simple Question Brings on a Major Revelation

Last December, my oldest brother was in town, visiting.  My husband and I picked him up from the airport. As we were driving to our mom's house, conversation flowed.  We had a lot to catch up on.....news from California and his family, news here with ours.

Suddenly John turned to me and asked, "How's your new job?  Do you like it?"

I must have paused for a brief moment, because Rod, my husband, jumped in. "She absolutely loves it."  And I realized I did.  I hadn't really thought about it, but I was happy and it took someone else to notice.

I was still working hard. I was still faced with regular challenges (that is one thing that makes me happy!).  But I was HAPPY.

I have pondered that brief moment these past few months.  Why didn't I realize the difference?  What does Rod see?  How often does our happiness just get absorbed into life?  What is "happy"?  Is happiness elusive or do we just not notice it?

I can now state specific things that make me happy...my teams, my position, the students I work with, the freedom I teach with. But those are just things. I have come to realize that what is truly making me happy is acceptance.  I am allowed to be me.  

There is a certain freedom and peacefulness that comes from acceptance....I am valued and respected.  I trust and respect my teams and they trust and respect me. 

And here's the thing -

Mutual trust and respect breeds creativity and innovation because there is no fear....no fear of ridicule or embarrassment. No fear of retribution or conflict. 

And for that I am thankful.

Thank you to Two Writing Teachers for the opportunity to share a Slice of my Life.