I must admit to being one of those people who, when asked "How are you?", replies, "Fine!". I may be feeling terrible, but have long since realised that what most people want to hear is that brief, one word reply. It makes me feel better, too.
A study at UC Davis, apparently found that students who kept a diary in which they recorded their feelings of gratitude were happier than those who were instructed to concentrate on the difficult vicissitudes of life:
I've always wondered why, when I read a biography or novel that recounts the tale of extreme hardship, I am enlightened by the experience, rather than disheartened. (for example, Knut Hamsun's "Hunger"). I suspect that it is because I realise how fortunate I am.
In any case, I can always go to sleep with Bing Crosby's lyrics ("Count your blessings, not sheep") from "A White Christmas". (My excuse.... I love old movies, I had a career in theatre, I've passed 40 )
Sisiphus (not verified)
December 8, 2006 - 12:36I must admit to being one of those people who, when asked "How are you?", replies, "Fine!". I may be feeling terrible, but have long since realised that what most people want to hear is that brief, one word reply. It makes me feel better, too.
A study at UC Davis, apparently found that students who kept a diary in which they recorded their feelings of gratitude were happier than those who were instructed to concentrate on the difficult vicissitudes of life:
http://mamamusings.net/archives/2003/12/30/count_your_blessings_really.php
I've always wondered why, when I read a biography or novel that recounts the tale of extreme hardship, I am enlightened by the experience, rather than disheartened. (for example, Knut Hamsun's "Hunger"). I suspect that it is because I realise how fortunate I am.
In any case, I can always go to sleep with Bing Crosby's lyrics ("Count your blessings, not sheep") from "A White Christmas". (My excuse.... I love old movies, I had a career in theatre, I've passed 40 )
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