Happiness

(January 13, 1999)

If we are not happy, it is because no one has given us permission to be.

The hardships and stresses of those who went before us make us wonder if we have a right to do better. Do we have permission to outlie, outdo, outwork all those who went before us? Have we given our children permission to be stronger, better, and more intelligent than we are? Or have we told them to adhere to their roots instead of respecting them? Have we made them caretakers, or have we set them free to be strong builders on firm foundations?

Permission is hard to come by when we wait and wait for someone to tell us we have done well, that we have earned the right to be mature, respected adults. No, we give ourselves permission to grow, to live long and well, to prosper and be in good health.

I can tell my children that the way to get honor is to go to work and be good men and women.

Peace, Tawanka