Seeking the source of and enjoying the smiles

At this time of year, with all the turmoil and uncertainties, it is a battle to remain optimistic and upbeat.  As I've written recently, doubts, concerns, and frustrations seem ever present.  But so are some observations about the happiness available to us on a daily basis.  All we need do is seek out the sources of and enjoy the smiles.

• For this gray beard, the primary source is family.  My bride of more than 40 years, our son, and our daughter, plus her husband and our three wonderful grandchildren.  And Mom, brother, and sister.
• My two closest friends: one of more than 50 years and the other of nearly 30 years.
• Traditional Christmas music.
• Being able to remain physically active cycling, lifting weights, and playing tennis.
• The occasional fishing excursion.
• Christmas lights.
• The beautiful sunsets off our patio.
• A good cup of coffee on a cool December morning.
• Sharing humor with my Marine buddies.
• Volunteering to help Marines, sailors, and their families.
• Christmas cards.
• Watching small children smile at everything.
• Hearing the laughter of children while cycling by the local elementary school.
• Being on the open road on the bicycle or motorcycle.
• Receiving a smile in return when offering a smile to a stranger.
• Saying Thank You when it is appropriate.
• Wrapping Christmas gifts for family and friends.
• Playing music.
• Chatting with friends.
• Seeing my wife's first smile of the day.
• Anticipating the visit of our grandchildren.
• Looking for and seeing the small kindnesses strangers offer one another.

These are but a few sources of the smiles to be enjoyed.  Just a few minutes thinking over a cup of coffee enabled me to develop this list.  Each of us can find these sources and enjoy the resulting smiles.