Reflecting on 2023: A Year of Achievements and Happiness

2023 has been an exceptionally fulfilling year, marked by a blend of personal achievements and joyful experiences. While I've faced some challenges, such as the rehabilitation process, the progress has been steady and heartening. Here, I share some highlights from my year and how I've maintained a positive outlook.

Personal Milestones and Happier Moments

Beyond my mom's care at the nursing center, where she is doing well, I've devoted significant time to enjoyable activities. One of the standout experiences was attending the Temptations play at the Ahmanson Theater. This was followed by a delightful trip to The Magic Castle hotel in Los Angeles, where I enjoyed magical shows and dinner at The Magic Castle. We were also fortunate enough to catch a comedy show featuring Jay Leno. The thrill of vacationing in Las Vegas and enjoying numerous dining experiences, particularly with steakhouses, added to the joy. These experiences have greatly contributed to my overall happiness.

Anticipating Travel and Future Plans

Travel remains a significant goal for the future. However, I was particularly excited about the Hollywood Bowl, which we missed this year but have plans to attend next. Additionally, traveling to Tokyo for the first time in over four years is on my radar. I'll be meeting my two best friends, whom I haven't seen outside of Zoom for the past four years. One friend is traveling up from Kamakura to meet the other, who is returning from Japan where he currently resides in Canada. This solo train ride into Tokyo is long overdue and promises to evoke feelings of nostalgia and excitement.

Elevating Positive Thoughts and Aiming for a Happy Life

The journey of feeling happier can be challenging, especially with occasional setbacks like my mobility issues. However, even slight progress, no matter how slow, is still progress. Personal interactions and plans like these solo train rides and meetings with old friends remain significant sources of happiness. Spending a life filled with joy and contentment is the ultimate goal. Here are a few ways to cultivate a happier life:

Embrace mindfulness:Spend moments thinking about what truly brings you joy and focus on these things every day. Stay connected:Schedule regular meetups with friends and loved ones to maintain positive social interactions. Seek new adventures:Plan novel experiences, whether big or small, to add excitement and novelty to your life.

Yes, I feel immensely better, and I sincerely hope that more people around the world can experience the same upliftment. Life, as it turns out, isn't just about doing what we think it is; it's about embracing it fully, with positivity and joy.