Wednesday, June 28, 2023
Do you ever think about what constitutes a good life? That’s a hard one, but we all seem to ultimately want it, but never seem to quite get there. We’ve placed far too much emphasis on working, making a living and making ends meet. We trudge through each day with not much affection or fondness for it all. It all seems to whir by with not much meaning or substance. But as I age, I drift towards more simplicity. I love the times when life is tender, or sweet and with not much going on at all. What are you fond of in your life?
My fond memories are numerous, but they don’t include anything that seems important in the world, like earning tenure in higher education, receiving an award, or reaching a financial milestone. While those things are nice, fondness is made up of affection, love, and simplicity. I love cuddling. I love playing board games with friends. I love reading. I love to think of my childhood, too. I can remember being able to lick the spatula after my grandmother frosted one of her legendary cakes. I love to travel too, but what I love the most is sharing the experience with friends and loved ones.
Fondness – the joy of being, either alone or with others. If you have a moment to curl up with a good book, and it’s in the middle of the workday, don’t feel guilty! You can enjoy a cup of coffee in the break room with a colleague and exchange dog photos – how fun. It’s just experiencing the loveliness of life itself that’s the best of all. Don’t miss the tender moments. Enjoy them to the fullest, because those are the ones that are overlooked. If you want a good life, start making some fond memories. There is a finite number of them in one’s lifetime, and they’re easy to overlook!