Tuesday, July 24, 2012

One Simple Pleasure Per Day

Like Rapunzel, I like to rock out on the guitar when I'm home alone.

I was watching The Wish List on the Hallmark Channel (I am a sucker for their movies) and one of my favorite parts is where the character Fred describes his one simple pleasure rule. Basically, he makes sure he has one simple pleasure (for example, a greasy cheeseburger) that is quick and easy to get per day. Though it was a quick scene it got me thinking that maybe I should do the same.

Let's take a moment to think about whether or not we have something similar. I don't know about you guys but I don't always do it. I'll be the first to admit that I like routine but that I also like to deviate from it once in a while to keep myself from getting bored. Though I am still on the job hunt (btw, if y'all know of any jobs I can do at home, let me know), I still make sure that I have something to do every day. Cleaning, washing, and cooking are the main ones. Driving mom to and from work is another big one. Fridays are my usual grocery shopping days. I'm online. I read. I drink tea. All of these things make me happy but I wouldn't consider them my one simple pleasure.

I've decided to make an effort to have my own daily simple pleasure that does no involve being online (aka tumblin' on tumblr), reading, or drinking tea. AND I'm going to make sure that it differs every day. With our busy (well, okay, I'm not that busy; writing/editing my novel is as close to it as I get) schedules, with all the stress, and crumbs we deal with every day, we should be able to enjoy something that makes us forget about it all... even if it's only for a couple of minutes. I challenge y'all to do the same. One thing. One quick and easy thing (that is not illegal or immoral... and, yes, I felt the need to write this.) Be silly. Be happy.

AND while you're at it, do one daily simple pleasure that will please God. Pray for someone who hasn't asked you to pray for them. Do an act of charity anonymously. Buy a homeless person lunch. Help older ladies and gentlemen when you see them at grocery stores by themselves. Remember that God has given us so many wonderful things that we don't always pay attention to because we're always rushing; why not do something to thank Him for everything?

Anyway, this is my positive challenge for y'all. :D I hope some of you take me up on it.. or even pass on the suggestion to someone who's been having a hard time lately. :D

I hope you are all doing well.

As always, thanks for reading and God bless! :D

3 comments:

Sr. Ann Marie said...

Great post--and great advice! When I get home from work I'm usually ready to sit and relax--and reading is a real relaxation for me. I keep making resolutions that I'll go to walk around the track (I live on the grounds of a diocesan high school). I'm a pretty slow walker but do enjoy doing it and listening to music at the same time. However, the heat has been so bad that even going out at 6 o'clock is too hot and humid!

Clare said...

GREAT idea, Emmy! Not only is it good for emotional health, but it's a wonderful way to remind ourselves that life is a gift, and to praise God for His bounty.

I'll try to remember this idea when I'm back in college and a slightly unhappy camper once again. God bless you! <3 <3 <3

Jeanine Spano said...

I try to sing a silly song w/ the boys. Something that I know makes them smile. Right now that is "head, shoulders, knees, and toes". When I'm stressed and they're crying, and dinner isn't made (frozen pizza for lunch AND dinner today), it is sure to make them and me giggle. :)