Stepping On the Soapbox!

I had been following a story from the area for a couple of weeks for a few reasons. First I heard that a motorcyclist was killed in a head on crash on a highway I had ridden on a few weeks before. Then I learned it was a 21 year old young man killed and the driver was a young lady. Today I learned the young man that lost his life was a member of the U of M Marching Band; 320 other members morn the loss of his life.
When I started riding motorcycle a few years ago I realized that there were two things that frightened me as I went down the road on my bike; deer suddenly jumping out of the ditch and distracted drivers. The more I ride, the more I realize the distracted drivers are certainly the bigger threat. It breaks my heart to think about the lives changed by this young life taken on that highway in broad daylight; the family of the motorcyclists AND the young lady.
We have heard of too many stories like this lately, motorcyclists and bicyclists are at risk on the roads. Let's stop calling these accidents. It seems to me if you choose to get behind the wheel you should choose to pay attention to the road and only the road. I realize accidents happen; this is not an accident. I don't know for a fact that the particular accident I am talking about is because of cell phone but it was a distracted driver. Everyone thinks it couldn't happen to them; it won't be me, or anyone from my family; it could be.
Pay attention today. Put your phone down. Please.

***short lady steps off soapbox

Happier

If you search the internet you will find all sorts of quotes and sayings about happiness. Farrell Williams sings the Happy Song; we clap along. Today NPR's TED talk was an interview of a scientist who researches happiness.
It seems the elusive key to a good life is happiness; it's something we all seem to strive for. But what does that mean for you? Mark Twain was quoted as saying "Whoever is happy will make others happy." According to George Sand there is only one happiness and that is to be loved and to love others. A quote that is credited to Ben Sweetland goes like this "Happiness is a journey, not a destination".
We have heard over and over that we are responsible for our own happiness. If that is the case why aren't we all ecstatic. Who would CHOOSE to be sad or lonely, unhappy?
It just isn't that easy; depression real, for many getting up in the morning is a struggle; feeling happy can be tough.
Even though it is not our responsibility to make others happier; it seems to make sense that if we make someone else happy; we will be happier too. And while we are at it let's remember to stay in the moment. Enjoy the little things; the laughter of a child, the beautiful sunrise or a beautiful waterfall.
Nothing new here; just a chance to start your day out right by making someone else happy too. Be nice today and you will be happier! Simple.