Happiness

"The Six Grandfathers have placed in this world many things, all of which should be happy.  Every little thing is sent for something, and in that thing there should be happiness and the power to make happy.  Like the grasses showing tender faces to each other, thus we should do, for this was the wish of the Grandfathers of the World" (153). 

        Imagine if the world actually worked like this: every part of nature, every person, every thing in the world was able to bring someone happiness.  That power alone could change the world so much.  If I stop to really appreciate the weather, I realize how happy sunshine, rainstorms, and even nature (flowers, trees) make me!  "Every little thing is sent for something"...wouldn't it be wonderful to know the purpose of everything?  It's obvious that we will never fully be able to know why certain things are sent to us -- plus this can be a controversial topic depending on religion.  But we are able to know that there is a power within us to make something out of each little thing we receive. 

        Abraham Lincoln is noted with saying, "Most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be."  Ever since I first heard this quote during my junior year of high school, it has become a saying that I live by.  I consider it to be of the utmost importance to make the choice to be happy; make the choice to overcome sorrows and displeasure with current life situations, and to see even the smallest aspect of good in everything that comes our way.  

        I guess that even Black Elk's tribe got it right -- happiness is in the core of a good life.  The idea of being a happy person and spreading happiness to others can be powerful, and I find it comforting to know that this idea resonates between cultures and over time, such as between the Native Americans and our society today.