by Lilly Pidgeon
“While excitement is vital and enriching, making life vibrant, true happiness is a different experience altogether; it offers a sense of tranquility and deeper fulfillment.” These insights come from Martha Beck, a life coach with a Ph.D. from Harvard.
“Genuine joy,” she explains, “is devoid of the chaotic highs and lows often associated with a life driven by excitement. It resembles a serene environment, filled with calm thoughts and feelings. To a society wired for adrenaline, this peace may seem quite dull.”
As I age, I find myself increasingly aligned with this perspective. I often use the metaphor of cake and frosting when talking to my children, comparing life and relationships to a cake: the foundation is crucial, but a bit of frosting enhances the experience. Finding that sweet spot can be challenging. Insufficient frosting can be disappointing, yet an overload of sweetness (though delightful in the moment) can leave you feeling unwell.
So, how do we navigate the risk of excess in this era of instant pleasure? The thrill of excitement is ubiquitous, amplified by the relentless cycle of action and adventure showcased in mainstream and social media. This makes it hard to foster a sense of calm in ourselves and even more so for our children. In our fast-moving and chaotic lives, it’s easy to dive headfirst into the frenzy. However, taking the time to slow down and appreciate the joy surrounding us can be incredibly rewarding.
This holiday season, I extend my warmest wishes for peace and joy to you and your family. May you enjoy cake with just the right amount of frosting.
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Live. Learn. Laugh.(BREATHE!) Repeat.
