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Step 1
Happiness is an elusive thing and comes into our lives in waves like the ocean onto a sandy shore. It sizzles into the sand as happiness sizzles into our heart, and then recedes back to the sea, leaving an imprint or warm recollection deep in our soul.
The awesome part is that happiness is not gone. We can experience “happiness” many times in our lives, as many times as we are prepared to receive and appreciate and absorb the “moments” as they come to us!
But we must choose to be happy.
We must choose to receive happy moments and events in our lives and internalize them for warm reflection upon the frosty dark nights of the winters of emotional scarcity. Our memories can actually carry us through between the “moments” of happiness. Our memories are our arsenal of safety and security while we are searching and waiting for our present “moments” of happiness.
Happiness in relationships is an ongoing challenge, though not insurmountable.
Now, I’m not talking “pleasure”, which is temporary and fleeting. I’m referring to those deep, warm fuzzies that can keep you awake at night, reflecting on the events of the day that have warmed your soul to the very bone. Experiences that can forever bring a smile to your heart with each and every recollection.
Consider the following recommendations:
I have discovered twenty elements that may be combined to make a perfect friendship and help us to find happiness within those friendships. They have been tried and are true, and may be used without exception with success when applied with patience and consistency.
1. Endeavor to be “in the moment”. It is our intent to become acutely aware of each expanding, timeless moment that we share. -
Step 2
2. Pay attention to and honor shared energy. Deeply believe and strive to live the essence of the word, “namaste’”, which means “to honor the sacred that is in us”.
3. Sincerely feel at ease with one another, and be comfortable in the presence of each other, whether in quiet conversation or profound meditative silence.
4. Be consentually familiar with one another, together in the moment. Sexual entanglements tend to complicate issues so we have chosen not to participate in such activities. Be satisfied and comfortable instead with a mutual agreement to freely touch, soothe and caress. -
Step 3
5. Have a quick understanding of one another, always assuming the best in each other.
6. Allow one another to assist each other as occasion arises. Have no issues that are typically attendant with the concept of self-pride.
7. Be willing to connect on all levels and in all places as much and as often as possible. Enjoy seeing one another and being with each other. -
Step 4
8. Share a sense of “well being” love for one another at the soul level. Consciously act for the best for one another and openly assist in one another’s welfare.
9. There may be a degree of sexual chemistry between us, of which you should be fully aware, and strive to maintain control of, as a slow burning flame of embers. You know you may be physically attracted to each other, but choose not to act on those feelings at this time.
10. Physical closeness, or “hugging until relaxed” is considered an important bonding activity and is a special means for deeper connecting in the moment. -
Step 5
11. Be are interested in each other’s “lives”, likes, values, and interests, and honestly desire to have all current information from each other in all these areas.
12. Quality time together is particularly important. Whether it be a few minutes or a few hours, be fully aware of and participating in each “moment” available to each other.
13. A relationship is never static, but always evolving with greater clarity and fluidity. Choose your words thoughtfully and consciously, to give one another the most complete understanding possible in each and every conversation. -
Step 6
14. Honesty between each other is paramount at all times. Do not underestimate the power, the joy, the strength and vulnerability of this one. All others hinge upon honoring this one. Love can only exist when you are willing to risk absolute honesty and intimate vulnerability. And none of us are perfect. At times, apologies are necessary. So remember, there is a grand difference between the “acceptance” of an apology, and true, heart-felt forgiveness.
15. Encourage open discussion on any and all subjects. Nothing is taboo. There is always something to be learned or understood with greater light and knowledge. There is much knowledge to find and discover and understand out there in our wide and wonderful world. But in the discovering of this knowledge it is what we become because of our searching that ultimately defines us. -
Step 7
16. Have no “expectations” of one another, and realize and joyfully accept all opportunities for greater awareness with one another. Strive to live the wisdom of the Tao Ta Ching (#2), which states that things arise and we let them come; things may disappear and we let them go. We have but do not possess, and we act but do not expect.
17. Personal freedom is to be honored at all times. Encourage personal growth and opportunity in all forms at all times whenever they arise. -
Step 8
18. Believe in “magical” moments and in the Now, together. Moments of intimacy, vulnerability and unique insight that can lift you to a higher plane of thought and “being”.
19. Be good listeners and allow one another the free expression of the thoughts of your soul.
20. Mutually enjoy with enthusiasm the wonders of nature and life. The beauty of creation exists, regardless of the means of our awakening to it. Notice the “signs” in nature and note the ones that “speak” to you, whether it be in animals, birds, or a beautifully peaceful sunrise and sunset.
