Happiness

I recently happened upon an article from the Happiness Project by way of my favorite new app Zite. The article states making sure you put things where they belong can increase your happiness.

I laughed when I read it because if this were true, I would be the most miserable person in the world. For example, I bet I spend 10 minutes a day looking for my keys. That is approximately 2.5 days a year I spend in a panic ranting like a lunatic (yes, I actually calculated it).

When I packed for Mexico, I made special care to account for everything that really mattered. My passport, my camera, battery chargers, bus ticket, favorite Christmas socks, etc. So when I realized I had left my credit AND debit card in my parents' scanner after a two-hour drive to Rockford, I was a wreck.

On the way to Rockford (prior to the meltdown), I thought about how I was going to say goodbye to my parents without crying. I was on the verge of tears when I left my sister and Olivia but managed to keep it together. I knew my parents were nervous about my living in Mexico with all its sensationalized horror stories. I knew I was scared too. Best to just throw an awkward hug and "Love ya" at them and close the door. That was my plan.

But the thought of telling my dad they may be driving an additional 6 hours just so I could afford to eat, destroyed the dam holding back my tears. He ALWAYS puts things where they belong.

So yes, being disorganized and forgetful will make you miserable.

But if I hadn't left my only access to pesos in Shullsburg, I wouldn't have be able to spend an extra 2 hours with my mom. I wouldn't have been able to see my wonderful aunt and uncle who brought the cards half way and then joined my dad for one last goodbye. I wouldn't have hugged my dad so tight and said the first true "I love you" in as long as I can remember.

So maybe putting things where they belong will bring moments of joy, but knowing am I loved makes me truly happy.