How to Be Genuinely Happy

Years ago, a friend gave me Max Ehrmann’s The Desiderata of Happiness: A Collection of Philosophical Poems because she knew I was a fan. I find Desiderata’s call to “avoid loud and aggressive persons” and “keep peace with your soul” particularly soothing. How could anyone not love his closer? “With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.”

I sometimes struggle with depression — especially during dark, cold and gray winter months. (Trust me; I’m dreading summer’s end.) Happiness isn’t something I was born with or anything that came easily served with life experience; I work at it. Every day. I spent years working jobs I didn’t like, residing in cities that didn’t match my lifestyle and otherwise living an unfufilling existence. I’m not saying I’ve figured out the “Meaning of Life” or anything like that, but I’ve found ways to be content and actively pursue my passions. I admire and respect what folks like Henrik Edberg (The Positivity Blog), Gretchen Rubin (The Happiness Project), Ananda Leeke (author, That Which Awakens Me and Love’s Troubadours) and others are doing — spreading positivity.

Recently, Yahoo! caught up with me to ask about makeovers and creating life anew. Here’s a photo of me getting a mic clipped to my dress, and below is the video in which I explain how I found (and continue to find) value. By the way, shout out to Yahoo! Shine for posting A Doctor’s Take on Female Ejaculation, 12 Things Smart Women Know About Men and other articles that aim to help improve womens’ love and sex lives.

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{ 14 comments… read them below or add one }

Jerlyn August 20, 2010 at 11:40 am

Very happy about  your post! I was definitely guilty of staying in situations where I was genuinely unhappy. I’ve made such an improvement in this past two years. I’m proud of you and me!

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Twanna A. Hines August 25, 2010 at 12:37 pm

*raises a glass*

To us!! :)

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puma73 August 20, 2010 at 12:08 pm

Still on my journey. But I definitely can relate to Jerlyn.

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Twanna A. Hines August 25, 2010 at 12:38 pm

See, but that’s the thing about life. We’re all on a journey, no?

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Aspasia August 20, 2010 at 3:49 pm

Very cool, Twanna! And may I say you look very pretty in that dress, the color is great on you. I’ve been in unhappy situations, usually concerning family and finances. Dating life? Never. I tolerate no bullshit from others nor do I dish out bullshit.

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Twanna A. Hines August 25, 2010 at 12:38 pm

Yeah, life’s waaaaay too short for bullshit.

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Amina August 20, 2010 at 4:11 pm

You look adorable in the video.

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Twanna A. Hines August 25, 2010 at 12:39 pm

Thank you! :)

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Baba Doodlius August 21, 2010 at 1:49 pm

WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO AVOID LOUD AND AGGRESSIVE PEOPLE?!?!  JUST THINKING ABOUT THAT MAKES ME WANT TO PUNCH SOMEBODY!
That is all.
 
P.S.  nice boobie shot on Flickr.

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Twanna A. Hines August 25, 2010 at 12:40 pm

http://tumblr.com/xlkgmv2wi

:)

Glad you like the boobs!

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Ananda Leeke August 26, 2010 at 2:13 pm

Thanks for the love! Sending you lots of positive vibes for your fall/winter projects and activities!

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Twanna A. Hines August 27, 2010 at 6:35 am

Thank for the love :)

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The Black Cat August 30, 2010 at 3:18 am

I really, really, REALLY like this post! Thanks for the links too. I really need to start “breaking away” from the rut I’ve been in for a few years… wish me luck!

PS: That dress is AWESOME. :)

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Twanna A. Hines September 1, 2010 at 12:18 pm

Glad you like and dress and GOOD LUCK in all you do! :)

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