Happiness

When I think about what I want for Jake, I keep coming back to one thing: I want him to be happy. BUT, I don't want it to be at any expense. I don't want to make myself crazy, catering to his every whim because if I give him enough STUFF and if he gets his way all the time, he will be happy. That is not happiness; that is selfishness and brattiness (and selfish, bratty people are never really happy.) Part of true happiness is a calm stability, knowing that life is not always going to be perfect, you will not always get your way, you will not always be thrilled with circumstances or the things that happen, especially as you get older and life gets more complicated; but somehow in the midst of everything a happy, well-adjusted person will find contentment and joy within themselves. Happiness comes from knowing you are loved and knowing that you have a place in God's plan. Knowing that wealth, material possessions, and success as defined by the world does not equal happiness. Knowing that the world is full of people who don't exist to make YOU happy, but that happiness can be found in finding ways to help those around you who are in need of something you have to offer -- whether it be friendship, a kind word, a shoulder to cry on, or a helping hand. And when I see pictures like this of Jake, I feel hopeful that I am on the right track.

Comments

[Kelly]

OMG JEN! He is SOOOO DAMN CUTE!!! Yes, he is HAPPY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[CaraH]

There's a lot of truth to this entry, Jen! Yes, we all want for our kids to be happy above all else. And I think you, as well as the rest of us, are doing a pretty damn good job!

[Jen_Jake'smom]

thank you, to both of you! You guys are great. ;o)

Jen

[Lisa]

I think that's the best thing ever to want for your baby. For them to be happy - without being such a pain in the ass. :) You're definitely on the right track girl-o - Jake is one happy boy in that picture. You're doing a great job!!! Love ya.

[Leslie]

Very sweet!!! Jake is a lucky boy to have such a great mom

Leslie

[Jen_Jake'smom]

Aww thank you now to Lisa and Leslie. I really wasn't fishing for parenting compliments, just looking at that pic of Jake and thinking about how I raising him -- but the extra assurance sure is nice! Thanks so much for coming by!!!

Jen

[Shelly]

Very cute indeed! I love those brown eyes! Such a cutie-I could just kiss him!!!

[Sue]

Happy pictures like that one make me realise that all the other crap that goes on in our lives really doesn't matter AT ALL. There is a lot of joy and love in Jake's eyes - you are obviously doing a wonderful job as his mommy!