In our backyard we have a swarm of dragonflies that takes up residence with us throughout the summer. While I know their lifespan is less than a year, it seems as if several of the regulars return year after year. Some are friendly and social; others seem cautious and wary.
Regardless of how hard you try, catching a dragonfly in flight is very, very difficult. Chase as you might, they are very speedy and elusive, and are next to impossible to catch with your bare hands. But, if you sit very still, within just a few minutes you’re almost assured to have one of them land softly on your toe, your finger, your head, or even your nose.
The same idea applies to butterflies.
Henry David Thoreau once said, “Happiness is like a butterfly; the more you chase it, the more it will elude you. But if you turn your attention to other things, it will come and sit softly on your shoulder.”
To which things should we turn our attention in our pursuit of happiness?
President David O. McKay explained one way to help us find happiness, “Happiness is found only along that well-beaten gospel track, as narrow as it is, which leads to life eternal.”
And Mother Theresa likewise shared with us one other characteristic of happy people - a tendency to be kind and optimistic. She said, “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting.”
If you are looking for happiness, consider turning your attention somewhere new. Try turning your attention outward, away from yourself. To service, to the gospel, to love, to kindness, to others.
Brother Erick Goss of the Stake Presidency
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