Theresa knows I have been disturbed by the incident with the emails in the office. She knows how much work issues upset me, keep me worried and distracted. So for the past 3 days, every time she sends me an email (which is about half a dozen or so every other day) she asked how I was feeling. I guess after what – 14 years – of marriage, she has come to know me really well. God has truly blessed me with a wonderful partner in life.
Anyway, in replying to one of her emails today, I said in spite of everything, we really need to remain positive and happy. She said that is easier said than done (again being that very understanding wife). I gave her one of my philosophical throw-away lines – you can be happy even when life is hard. I have read many times, many accounts of people who are so positive they remain upbeat no matter what life throws at them. These heroes believe happiness is all in the mind. I have come to see what they have been saying. Yes, pretend to be happy and you may actually be! I think even CS Lewis may have said that.
John So, Lord Mayor of Melbourne, personifies that. He laughs at the end of every second sentence. He was a bit of a joke initially but by sheer positive attitude, he has, I think, won over the hearts of Melburnians. During the Opening Ceremony of the Commonwealth Games, his name drew the loudest cheers and applause. There was a bit of irony and mockery in those receptions but by the time we got to the Closing Ceremony, the same cheers and applause have taken on more sincerity. Feedbacks on radio programs suggest Melburnians simply adore his can-do, let’s-have-a-ball attitude. He didn’t seem to mind people laughing at him and has turned that into people laughing with him.
I guess that is the lesson of the day – I will be happy, even if I’m not!
Ante 