March 20 — A Gentle Reminder of What Truly Matters-My Reflections
Today, March 20, is World Day of Happiness, a simple phrase that carries a profound message. Established by the United Nations, it reminds us that life’s true measure is not found in financial success or material accumulation, but in the quiet, enduring quality of our well-being.
At ninety-one, I have come to understand this in a way that only time can teach.
There was a season in my life when happiness meant accomplishment. I found it in recognition, in professional milestones, in knowing that my work made a difference. Those were meaningful years, and I do not diminish them. But happiness, I have learned, is not a fixed destination, it evolves as we do.
Today, my happiness is simpler, yet deeper and clearer.
It is found in the rhythm of my days. Playing bridge four times a week, where strategy meets laughter. Writing my daily blog posts, where reflection becomes connection. A weekly visit or phone call from my children, moments that once seemed routine, now treasured as gifts.
And, for nearly twenty-nine months now, a weekly one-hour whole body massage, an experience that has become more than physical comfort. It is a time of healing, human touch, and quiet renewal. In a world that often moves too fast, that hour reminds me to slow down and simply feel at peace in my own body.
There is a quiet richness in these small rituals.
World Day of Happiness encourages acts of kindness, gratitude, and compassion. At my age, I see these not as grand gestures, but as daily choices. A kind word. A thoughtful message. Taking the time to listen. These are the threads that weave a meaningful life.
Blogging, for me, has become an extension of that purpose.
Each post is a conversation with readers across the world, many of whom I will never meet, yet feel connected to. In sharing my thoughts, my memories, and even my vulnerabilities, I have discovered something remarkable: happiness grows when it is shared.
It multiplies quietly, traveling from one heart to another.
In my younger years, I might have measured happiness by what I achieved. Now, I measure it by what I give and what I receive in return not in material terms, but in connection, in understanding, in the knowledge that my words may resonate with someone, somewhere.
This day invites all of us to pause and reflect.
Happiness is not waiting at the end of a long road. It is here, in the present moment in love, in faith, in peace of mind, and in the simple act of sharing goodness with others.
If there is one lesson I would pass on, it is this:
Do not wait for happiness to arrive. Create it. Nurture it. Share it.
Because in the end, a happy life is not built on extraordinary moments, but on ordinary days lived with intention, gratitude, and an open heart.
And from where I sit today, I can say with certainty, these have been very happy days indeed.
- Theme for 2026: Focused on "Social Media and Happiness," exploring digital technology's impact on mental well-being and promoting its use for good.
- World Happiness Report: This report is typically released around this date, analyzing global happiness trends.
- Purpose: The United Nations recognizes happiness as a fundamental human right and goal, urging governments and individuals to prioritize well-being in public policy and daily life.
- How to Celebrate: Common, say Days Of The Year, activities include performing "#HappyActs" (small acts of kindness), sharing happiness on social media, spending time with loved ones, and practicing gratitude.
Besides ranking countries, this year’s report examines something that could be limiting happiness globally. What is it?
a) Social media
b) Drug use
c) Political polarization
d) Climate change
longer days, warmer air, and new life beginning to bloom. Meanwhile, the Southern Hemisphere welcomes the calm transition into autumn 
.
