Why so Complicated?

Getting down to the nitty gritty - and casting away all the illusions - one is surprised to find that life is really quite simple. Many don't realize that simplicity is actually a virtue. Perhaps it is this virtue that the Secular Institute is particularly called to give witness, because in the end it is a virtue that tears away distractions until all that remains is God, you, and your mission. It is a virtue that saves us from a most dreadful and common error: calling unholy things holy, or what is worse - holy things vain. It keeps us afloat in the waves of emotion and speculation of life, so that instead of drowning, we can enjoy the ride.

Allow me to simplify matters, with some little things that I see OVER and OVER again destroying the fragile roots of peace in souls - not exempting myself:

Happiness is being pure - not wearing skirts.
Happiness is being prayerful - not getting bruised knees.
Happiness is loving children - not having 12.
Happiness is being a friend - not being liked.
Happiness is seizing the moment to Glorify God- not freaking out about moral decay.
Happiness is turning to God - not stoically conquering the world alone.
Happiness is seeing God day to day - not looking for your own silly rendition of His masterpiece
Happiness is loving and then teaching - not the other way around.
Happiness is obedience - even when it ticks you off.
Happiness is detachment -  not obsessing about whether you are attached.
Happiness is knowing that you are loved and little - not little loved.
Happiness is self - knowledge - not self deprecation.
Happiness is fidelity - not constant warm fuzzies.
Happiness is simple - not complex.

You want to be happy. You ought to be holy. So, stop complicating matters and get back to the basics. Take a deep breath and thank God you're alive, ask Him to show His face to you today, and then at the end of the day --- Just say Thanks.