10 Little Things That Will Make You Smile

Finding Joy in Little Things: A Journey Through Sympathy and Mindfulness

Introduction

So many times in life there are unexpected twists and turns, making it hard to know which way to look for some positivity. Oftentimes looking into your own life for positivity can make your thoughts spin out of control even more! From sunsets to snowflakes, we often are so caught up in our daily life we forget to sometimes take a step back and admire the beauty, fun, and excitement that the world has to offer.

The Buddha's Realization

This method of easing the negative thoughts I have about myself occured to me when recounting one of the Buddha's first realizations. While sitting under a rose apple tree, observing a field being plowed, the Buddha felt overwhelmed with sympathy for the bugs whose homes were being destroyed. This led to his insight into the power of human sympathy. He believed that sympathy allows us to transcend our own experiences and immerse ourselves in something entirely different.

The Power of Sympathy

Sympathy can transport us to unexplored realms, like the mind of a bug, and let us experience moments with no strings attached. It's this ability to feel deeply for others, even for the smallest creatures, that enables us to find beauty in a world that sometimes seems bleak. Sympathy allows you to appreciate the world's beauty without requiring it to be directly related to you.

Utilizing Sympathy

Whenever I'm bogged down by my own mistakes or anxieties, I use sympathy as an escape. It takes me to places I've never been, a place I feel like I haven’t messed up, a place that I am not a part of at all. I am able to find a new perceptive in this "ordinary" life I live.

Celebrating the Little Things

Whatever turn life takes you, just know; you can always take a step back from your life and take a quick step into a new life, a new outlook, or a new perspective. These moments, as quick as they may be, can have such an impact on your mood. These little things are here to remind you of the innate beauties and wonders of the world! Now, before you read I should add a disclaimer: THIS BLOG IS A WEIRD AND SILLY ONE! I advise entering only with a whimsical mindset as I am listing some of the most random and mundane things, that my mind has transformed into marvelous, enjoyable moments. I know that some (or all) will not resonate with you, but I advise to take inspiration as you are reading to brainstorm some of the small silly things that make you smile- moments or things that may take you out of yourself for a quick moment; as these can be some of the most profound moments...moments that many jaded minds pass right by. So gear up and get ready as I share with you 10 of my favorite "little things" that make me smile:

1. Grasshoppers and Squirrels: With their superhero-like jumps.

We often are mesmerized with super-hero movies, with all their strengths and abilities. Some even longing to enter into one of these marvelous worlds. Well I have a surprise for you...some of these super hero abilities exist! Noticing these wonders requires a practice frequently used in Buddhism which is to step outside of a human-centric mindset for a quick moment (the concept of non-self). From jumps, speed, web-building, poisons, regeneration, electricity many organisms hold powers that are fascinating to observe. For me, I simply enjoy watching the jumps and maneuvers of organisms. To me it is silly and powerful at the same time. Think to yourself, are there any super heroes or villains you pass by daily, not even noticing; what do you think their universe looks like?

2. Birds on Windy Days: Their effortless gliding through the sky.

This one always strikes me in the heart. Many people grew up with the longing to fly...I actually never had that longing, so I was surprised when one day in Colorado, I see a bird playing around in a windy current that even I could feel like enjoyment emitting from them, so much so it fell onto me as well. The feeling that day just overwhelmed me, I couldn't help but giggle, I could sense the child-like wonder through the bird. How it felt to play in the wind, coast around, letting the current take you for a moment. The bird had the strength to fly normally, it was not too windy of a day; they truly just enjoy floating, twisting and turning in a strong current for a moment.

3. Tomatoes: Their cute and squishy nature.

You know, truthfully I do not have a great explanation for this one. I actually am not the biggest fan of tomatoes on my food either; there is something about the shape, color, and a gardens harvest of tomatoes that brings a smile to my face. What a cute, squishy, and fun thing mother nature has created- it is just lovely! Think to yourself, has mother nature created anything for you to smile? Something that doesn't have to do anything, something that can just be and still bring a smile on your face. The answer is yes, Mother Earth creates for all beings, it just takes a moment to step within yourself and notice that slight smile when you notice it.

4. Jello: Its unique wobble.

Similar to the tomato, this one is something that creates a giggle. A simple poke and wobble is enough for me to smile and giggle. Who doesn't need an extra laugh here and there. ~wobble wobble~

5. Wind-Blown Plants: Imagining them as cheerleaders.

I noticed this sensation as I was staring out my window in rural New York sipping on my morning coffee. There was a corn field directly in front of me and as I am looking at these plants wave back and forth so enthusiastically, I could imagine them as little plant cheerleaders. I couldn't help but laugh and imagine them cheering me on as I prep to enter my day. Now every time I pass by a field on a windy day I smile as I pass by knowing I have received some extra encouragement for the day.

6. Cicadas in Summer: Their essential summer sound.

This sound transports me back to my youth, playing outside with my sister. Adventuring into nature, swinging on the playset, or simply sitting on our front porch. The sound automatically resonates with me and while I am not always in my childhood home when I hear them; their sound enables me to manifest a sense of home within my own body. I feel myself calm down and enter into a state of happiness, child-like wonder, and calm. Each round is like a breath of air for me, reminding me to take a moment to breathe and feel at home within the body I live and play in every single day. Are there any sounds or smell you encounter that may remind you to breathe and relax into the present moment you are sitting in? Whether it is the ambience of a coffee shop, rain drops, maybe even passing traffic if you are living in a city. These are all parts of the Earth, equally valuable and fascinating.

7. Stargazing: The vast beauty of the night sky.

The vast coldness of an infinitely large universe overhead, as you are embraced by the warmth of the Earth below you. A moment that feels equally grounding as it does expansive. In this moment I can feel my mind wonder into space, with my curiosities and fascination, while my body suddenly realizes the compassionate planet I am standing on. My body may limit me, but my mind is able to explore the sky above. This moment to me is always profound, and I continue to respect it every single night.

8. Cozy Moments in Bed: Especially on cold, lazy days.

A privilege I believe should be acknowledged and loved, not just when your alarm goes off as you dread the day ahead. How lucky are we to have such comfort, blankets you love, a pillow to support you. The way your body instantly reacts the moment it hits the bed. In this moment I am grateful to have a body to enjoy this bed and the warmth it gives.

9.Sparkling Snow: Nature's glitter.

Billions of snowflakes falling to earth, sparkling in a pure white powder, each one unique. A breathtaking view, and a natural wonder that can take your breath away.

10. Microscopic Army: Imagining the bacteria and microorganisms on and in our bodies as tiny soldiers protecting their home (you).

Humans are by nature "human-centric", yet we forget to notice the symbiotic organisms we carry with us every day. More than half of the cell on our bodies are not human cells. Around 54% of your cells are made up of bacteria, fungi, microbes, and viruses. While some of these make you sick, a majority are there to support you, not only that, they are depending on your survival! Just as we depend on the survival of Mother Earth, these organisms call your body their home, and are dependent on you, to continue on. So when you feel the world is against you, know that there are a whole lot of micro organisms who like you in particular, and are rooting for your survival, success, and health every single day. You are never alone in this world. There are humans there for you as well, but relationships sometimes seem tricky to navigate-that being said, humans are not the only species in this world, in this universe, there is always a being rooting for you!

While silly, it is very true that humans should work on breaking free from their "human-centric" view. Other things matter in this world; if you feel like you can't make a difference to humans that is ok. There are plenty of beings you share your unique love and light to everyday.

Conclusion

In essence, this journey of sympathy and mindfulness teaches us to appreciate the world beyond ourselves. It's not just about detachment, but about connection in the most unexpected forms. I get that some of these may seem silly, or maybe seem like nonsense, but hey; what's more silly and non-sensical than living on a giant spinning rock in an infinite universe! In this "Meat Reality" as Finn from Adventure time would say, we get caught up in ego and materialistic wants, and that's alright! But try to take a step back and look around for the "silly" joy that can be found in the simplest of things, often hidden in plain sight, waiting to be acknowledged and cherished.

!!Adventure Time Spoiler!!