The Pursuit of Happiness 7-10-06

The Holiday week has been one of industry and accomplishment. Tim has taken some time off work and has been cleaning, painting and building. Things around the house are getting closer to being finished. The garage got it's final coat of paint and some new shelving. The downstairs bathroom (whose window was covered over by the construction of Joseph's bedroom) has been getting the inside wall back in place and ready for plastering etc.
Joseph has been doing well although fighting some bugs. He's had some fun going to the double feature at the drive-in movies (yeah, they still have one in Salt Lake) with friends. They jump in his van and trundle off with lawn chairs and goodies.
Dad's always had a great interest in the Founding Fathers, This year he has experienced books including biographies of Washington, Adams, Franklin, and Hamilton, and 1776 by McCullough and Band of Brothers by Ellis. What is clear is that while they believed man had an 'inalienable right' to the 'pursuit of happiness' -- they found that happiness themselves by sacrifice, hard work, and service to a cause greater than themselves. In fact, it is clear that happiness comes as a by-product of that service, and not by pursuing happiness at all. Happiness seems to come most often by ignoring it. Recognizing the small blessings of each day; being amazed and delighted with the consistancy of friendships that never go stale, but sweeten as they ripen; enjoying the repartee and sociality of those we love; these are the simple things that bring joy. How grateful we are to have each other -- and you!