Finding Happiness

It's been a strange day. This morning I went and visited with a friend, who unexpectedly told me that she and her husband are getting a divorce. At first, I felt horribly sad about the whole situation (and I still am sad that this couple's relationship and dreams for the future haven't worked out), but my friend was so happy at the same time. She was glowing. And as we talked about her current plans and situation, I could tell that she is doing what she feels will ultimately bring happiness to herself and her family. As I left her house this morning, I felt happy too. I'm happy that she is living the life that she wants to live, and I'm happy that she has found happiness.

After leaving my friend's house, I went downtown to see another friend at his new job. This friend and I worked together several years ago, and he just moved into the area to live with his boyfriend. Although it seems like he's a little out of his comfort zone (he just moved here from Utah) and we only spoke for a few minutes, and I can tell that he's happy too. I know that this friend has experienced a lot of pain and difficulties in his life because of his sexual orientation. It was so nice to perceive that he is in a positive environment and is thriving in his new life up here.

The juxtaposition of these two visits has gotten me thinking a lot about happiness today. Both of my friends have made some drastic life changes in order to find happiness. And in many cases, I think those drastic changes are necessary for happiness to come about. My own husband made some drastic changes in his own life over a year ago, and he has felt more peace and happiness than he has felt in a long time. And I'm happy in my husband's happiness. Although I wish that the drama and drastic changes could be avoided (especially for my friends' sakes), I'm glad to know that people find happiness after the dust settles. That's what we all want, right? I believe that deep down, everyone just wants to find happiness in their own way.