And that is still true, in a sense. The householder who does not notice the termite, or the little crack in the foundation, may live to regret it; and the same with the driver who does not pay attention to squishy brakes or the bad tire. But to be always, 100% (or 95 or 85) focused on the negative—on the ‘problem’ or the potential problem—to dwell constantly in fear or anxiety—is no way to live. Nor is it realistic! And because we are responsible people, we should strive to be realistic. And there are many things that are beautiful and right.

So no, we cannot bury our heads in the sand and hide from problems. But it’s ok to enjoy your home without fearing that the ground will swallow it up or that it will fall down around your ears. It’s ok to enjoy a drive in that nice automobile without constantly worrying that there is a fatal accident around the next corner. It’s ok to walk in a garden and smell the flowers and admire the colors—and all the caring work that went into it—without carrying with you all the problems of the world. In fact, it’s not only ok, it’s essential.

For without the ability to see, enjoy, and appreciate, to feel gratitude, and gently smile at a flower, then what is all the worrying for anyway? Happiness will never come. Happiness is not ‘out there’ somewhere, when all the problems are solved. It is ‘in here,’ right now. With problems and beauties both present. As they always are.

And in appreciating and enjoying the beauties, we are strengthened. Greatly. And enabled to do our part to solve the problems as they come along.

(These photos from 2 evenings ago, as Kathy and I wandered Munsinger Gardens in St. Cloud. She said she ‘needed it.’ So did I).