Competition.

When did we come to be a culture that is always in competition to be the worst off? Why is it always better if we slept the least or we have the highest bills. Shouldn't we celebrate successes and help each other gain pleasure in our lives so that we no longer compete for the worst off? This frustration stems from a conversation with some family friends. The bulk of the four hour conversation was complaining about money and how bad everything, and I mean EVERYTHING, is. I know all about their financial advisor, I even know his name, but I didn't really get to hear about what they are doing and what brings them joy. They started talking about being excited for the next football season... and then started complaining about the changes in parking and yada yada yada. I haven't seen them since my father's funeral over a year ago and all I know about is their financial insecurity. When did depression become a competition?

Today, I had a delightful day with a great friend and two frisky four legged friends. Just take a lesson from them. They were so excited to be out in the mountains, exploring trails, trees and mud. My friend and I don't have the most spectacular things going on in our lives, but we didn't compare our woes. We touched on them, listened to each other, but in no way tried to compare who is worse off. Who cares?! We were enjoying each other's company and the spectacular surroundings that were challenging our bodies. I mean, we are the guide to our own woes and happiness so complaining about how bad we have it is just an insult to ourselves. Instead, we took the positive route and celebrated where we are and what we have.