This past Friday I learned that happiness is... complicated. I started out the day attending Ophthalmology Grand Rounds, which was focused on process improvement, and from there I went to observe in oculoplastics. Here they performed a mixture of eye surgeries and cosmetic procedures such as Botox and fillers. A few of the eye surgeries were medically indicated to resolve a visual field deficit or eyelid redundancy that was causing damage to the eye. Other procedures, including eye lifts and Botox, were patient requested for cosmetic enhancement. I hold zero judgement for cosmetic procedures. I endorse self-love and investing in your happiness, however that may manifest. The patients were happy with their results and continued with their busy days in the hustle of the city.

Shortly after my day in clinic we packed up the car and drove through parts of West Virginia and Ohio that were very industrialized. We drove through small communities that were born from jobs available in industry, power plants, welding, textiles, and some seriously hard labor. The physical factories were weathered and seasoned with memories and sweat. A few windows were broken and the community homes surrounding the area looked grey and outdated. Yet, nestled in the midst of these homes was a vibrant high school football field. The Friday night lights. There were single family homes with front yards filled with children’s toys, and porches with two seats overlooking the street – just waiting for the couple to come outside and enjoy the spring.

We stopped here, and those walking in and out of the gas station were hard workers - judging by their clothing, steal toed boots, and dust and dirt that came with the territory. One in particular smiled at me and held the door for our chaotic family. He was seriously happy.

The different views of happiness made be pause. One group investing in self-care before their family rushed home from school, and the other grateful to be done with a long day’s work. The differences gave me pause. For all I know, the guy in overhauls holding the door could have been a millionaire, choosing to live a simple, judgment free, hard working life. But, I was most envious of the guy in coveralls. He was living out in the countryside, away from the hustle of the big city expectations, tall buildings, small yards and concrete. It made me miss my small town. It made me admire all those working hard to make ends meet and made me so grateful for those working in industries which we all rely on to keep the economy spinning.

I see the joy in both sides. And on that day, in that moment, I was happy to be traveling with my family, all packed into one car heading to visit friends in Cincinnati. My toddlers were also very happy slurping on their shared shamrock shake. The world is complex.  Happiness comes in many ways, shapes, and places.

Minimalism is about finding happiness wherever you are – in this moment.

What are you grateful for today?

(pssst - let me know on Instagram)

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