Chasing happiness

The following message hit my inbox this morning:

Good morning.
"Seeking money or power for the sake of the ego is chasing the illusion of happiness instead of enjoying happiness in the moment." -Deepak Chopra
God is Love
Rev Run

Through my recent transition to a bit of a yogi (OK, I'm a work in progress that need a lot of work before I can be called a yogi, but I'm trying and that's all that matters) and listening to some books that discuss Buddhist principles (the Tiger Woods and Steve Jobs books) I've found myself more in the moment. I'm still a planner, of course, as I am a tax accountant and without planning I'd be professionally worthless. Personally, though, I can find happiness in a great cup of coffee, an intriguing read, an invigorating workout, a laugh with Jackson, a ballgame with MacKenzie and an instance where I really "see" God at work wherever that may be. I used to be so caught up in what was next that I think I missed the here and now. While I'm a firm Christian and won't be moving over to Buddhism, I do believe that some of the religion's teachings (not being materialistic for one- ouch a tough one for me!) are worth heeding and applying to our lives and walk with Christ.

I was always very skeptical of "slowing down" professionally like I have by leaving public accounting and even more skeptical of "listening to my breath" like we do in yoga but both have proven to be great things for me. I'm so thankful for new lifestyle. I actually have time to read, think, exercise, grow in many ways and spend time with my friends and family. I feel so lucky! While I harbor great sadness at the recent loss of my Grams, I feel better, more youthful, more thankful and closer to the Lord than I've ever been and that is a great feeling.