Current Thoughts: There’s a guy in Africa who lives in a mud hut who’s way more happy than you.
| During my recent trip to Africa, we met a man and his family who lived in a mud hut on a hill. I’m not exaggerating when I say mud hut. His house was probably 10’x15′ and it was made from wood, mud, and tin roof. The floor was dirt. He had a wife and at least 4 kids who lived in the house with him. Of course, as an American, my initial reaction was to feel sorry for the man because of his lack of material possessions compared to mine. But the truth is, he was plenty satisfied and happy, probably more so than me, more so than you. Here’s something to consider: over the last year, how often have you expressed gratitude, joy, and thankfulness for central heating and air? My guess is zero. Now, how many times have you expressed negativity over the temperature of a room? My guess is more than zero. The guy is Africa doesn’t know any different. He’s satisfied. He’s happy. I’m sure you’ve heard the saying “comparison is the thief of joy.” The down side of material comfort is the ability to constantly compare, to constantly lack joy. I haven’t fully worked out what to do about that yet but I do think consistently bringing awareness to the forefront is a good start. Daily gratitude is probably a good first step towards being more content. |
Things I Like: Castile Soap
| I’ve always had “sensitive skin”. It would dry out easily, I’d get beard dandruff, it would get irritated when I shaved, etc. Turns out it just didn’t respond well to chemicals. I started using castile soap (soap made exclusive from plant oils) and my skin did a complete 180. No irritation, no drying out, nothing. I replaced all the soap in my house with this and it’s been a total game changer. |
Things to Check Out: 77 Year Old as Fit as a 25 Year Old
| Jeannie Rice is a runner who’s VO2 Max is that of a 25 year old. Our perception of what’s possible in aging is flawed because it’s built from observing a generation that never exercised as adults. This is just more proof of what’s possible. |
Everyone has an idol. Play this game to find out what yours is
Have a great week!
David
