But we fail to see the bigger plan.

Instead we align ourselves to shallow, human-created values and then desire to look different, to live elsewhere and to have material things that we cannot afford. We are never satisfied with what we have been given.

It is interesting to note how often we secretly covet the lifestyle of our neighbours and friends. It is human nature to perceive that the “grass is always greener on the other side.” This flawed perception is responsible for many of the problems we are facing today. If we can learn to accept and even appreciate our circumstances and see them as integral to our development as human beings, then we are going to have fewer dissatisfied people and a much lower incidence of depression.

Contentment is a rare trait and those who are satisfied with their circumstances are the luckiest people alive because they can enjoy life deeply while inspiring others to do the same. We are always craving something or the other, forgetting the fact we have should be properly exploring and utilizing whatever has been gifted to us by God. It is only with the passing of time do we realize that we’ve missed many opportunities to appreciate the true value of what we have been given and by then it is too late to turn back the clock.

Certainly we should aspire for other things in life: a better education, better health, job promotions and a more comfortable house but we must also cherish what we have right now as we are reading this article. A bird in hand, is better than two in a bush. Take a little time to do some introspection and you will see your life in a different way.

Make your glasses green, and then you’ll find that the grass is really greener.…on your side of the fence!

To me, the bliss of dawn heralds a rebirth everyday – a rebirth of the earth and our human spirit.

It is during the dawn as the soft and delicate glow unfolds that we come closest to nature in her pristine form.

The Sufi poet Rumi reminds us, “The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell. Don’t go back to sleep.”

Lovers from across the ages will attest that the gentle breezes of dawn can soothe a troubled heart.

Enjoying nature during dawn is one of the most enchanting experiences known to us. Immersing oneself in daybreak lends a touch of ethereal enchantment to drab lives and a mundane existence.

From the dawn emanates an energy of hope and regeneration that keeps us inspired all through the day in spite of the challenges thrown at us.

So, if you really want to have a beautiful and inspired day, wake up early and pay homage to the dawn.

According to an often quoted saying, “Cleanliness is next to Godliness.” But I believe that it should be, “Happiness is next to Godliness.” God has given us a beautiful gift of life and by being sad we do not do justice to Him.

Happiness is an essential part of any person’s life. A happy person enjoys life completely and truly values God’s priceless gift. He/she is like a radiant jewel in a drab world of pessimists. Those who brood over past events and future prospects not only disregard God’s gift but they do injustice to themselves as human beings with remarkable potential.

Life should be enjoyed with happiness and delight. I do not agree with Hardy’s view. I am convinced that sadness is an occasional episode and even when we are confronted with anguish there is a blessing involved because it teaches us to be aware of the real essence of life and how to appreciate happiness to a greater extent.

We are here on earth to accomplish certain goals and if we work on keeping a happy outlook we’ll accomplish those goals much faster and more efficiently.

Happiness and sorrow are like two seasons. If one season is there, the next is sure to follow. The best way to enjoy these two seasons is to have patience. Becoming overwhelmed happiness or being too distressed in sadness mars the essence of living.

Our life is very precious and in order to give and receive the very best, we must polish it with happiness. When we polish life with happiness we are able to maintain the lustre and we find that God’s blessings are reflected through this polished life.

So, remain happy. Even when sadness comes, deal with it patiently knowing that very soon the autumn of sadness will change into the spring of happiness.