Here is the best place to be

Sometime in the summer of 2023, I spent several minutes to a few hours every day in Winnipeg’s Kings Park in the Fort Richmond area. My favorite spot in the park was beside a perfectly quiet lake with a small wooden bench for me to sit. I remember sitting there one day and seeing the full reflection of the background forest in the calm lake. I had never seen water so peaceful and quiet, and reflecting its surroundings as if it were a mirror. The only sound I heard was that of the chirping birds. My “head” became very clear. I was able to think clearly with my mind, as peaceful and as clear as the waters in the lake. I felt comfort from within as I meditated, and I got carried away by the deep thoughts of beautiful things I couldn’t even explain. Then, I thought to myself, “here is the best place to be”. True story.

Although my story suggested that the best place to be is a physical location, like the side of a quiet lake. However, I realized that it is not really about a physical place but about the location of our minds at any point in time. It is possible to be beside the quietest water but with the noisiest mind full of anxiety, doubts and fear. It is also possible to be in the middle of chaos and tumult while maintaining calmness on the inside. Internal peace is not a function of our outward experiences but a state of calmness that results from gratefulness, contentment, good works and a positive outlook on life. Truly happy people are those who derive their happiness from the good stored up in their hearts and not from outward factors or situations.
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There is a higher place of rest and happiness that we can all inhabit. We can start journeying toward it. We start by slowing down to acknowledge the beauty of life through both the good and bad times, through the experiences that have molded us into who we are and thereby being grateful for every aspect of our lives. To be in a place of happiness, one must become content, show love and compassion to others, live for the greater good and always expect the best out of life irrespective of present circumstances. It is the best place to be, a higher place of peace and tranquility. 

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Actions for the week

1. Are you already in a place of happiness? Only you can answer that question. If not, why not? What do you need to do to move into a place of inner peace?
2. Determine to wear joy everywhere you are and whatever is the situation. Remember that true happiness comes from within. Be grateful. Be content.
3. Share this message with those in your circle.

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A quote to remember
“I must learn to be content with being happier than I deserve.” ― Jane Austen

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Until another time,
Dele Ola, Award-Winning Author of Be A Change Agent
​Click HERE to learn about and get copies of Dele’s Books