Contentment In Context...

     Oftentimes, we may catch ourselves thinking, or, even, saying aloud, this thought, 'Gee, if only I could have this, (thing), occur in my life, I'd be content'; or, perhaps, 'I'd be so happy, if ...' Well, the thing is this; absolute, contentment does not come from getting the things we want, it exists, when we are satisfied with the things we have. We live in a society that reminds us, constantly, of all the great 'stuff' that's available, and the items which would 'make our lives more complete'. So, unless, we can determine the difference between desiring something, simply to enjoy it, rather than focus on the need for a thing, because we feel we cannot be fulfilled without it, therein lies a problem. Some of the most, happy, and, contented folk are those who, by, some standards, possess the least, by way of material property; this, due to the fact that they are thankful for that which they do have, and, understand this to be the basis of true fulfillment. Over the years, I've heard some say, that, in their opinion, 'less is more'. When I was young, I didn't quite, understand, this sentiment. However, today, I, do, appreciate this ideal. When we are, forever, aspiring to a state of contentment, based on the acquisition of something, then we are not ever going to 'get there', insofar as being happy is concerned; as, there will, in all likelihood, ALWAYS be that 'something else' we need. Yet, when we can look around at the 'wealth' we do own, e.g., family and friends, relative, good- health, our home(s), food on the table, and, be our happiest selves, in full appreciation of these things, we will have attained that, desired, state of contentment. To achieve this state of being, is one of life's greatest gifts; to acknowledge this fact, an even greater gift; and, to accept this reality, the GREATEST gift, of all. Just Sayin'...