That’s a quote from the legendary musician Bob Marley. Every time I hear that line (and I love me some Bob Marley, so I hear it often) it hits me hard.
I, like many I know, can easily get caught up in the trials and tribulations life throws at me. That is not, however, what I should or want to throw back at life and those around me. Easier said than done though eh?
But, there truly is so much sadness in the world already that it seems overwhelming sometimes; and that is why we must carry the light.
We have a choice. If you speak your own happiness, it will combat the darkness with your personal light. If you continue on thinking of your own woes, you add to the sadness.
There is always a light in the storm, even the worst storm you could ever imagine. The light may seem small and may not touch all, but, that again is reason for the rest of us to speak happiness, be kind, and cultivate more light so those in need can feel its warmth.
So, if you find yourself thinking about the trials in your life with frustration, anger or negativity, try to think and speak happiness instead. It may take effort. Hell, it may take a LOT of effort. But, the world really is sad enough, its important to add to the light instead.
With the dark cold days of winter come some of the best beers in my opinion; Imperial Stouts.
These rich, dark, yummy beers originated because the Czars of Russia loved the English stouts, but, the traditional stouts were too low in alcohol content to make the long journey to Russia. The brewers needed something with a higher alcohol content to preserve the beer during its long journey. Also, the malts and hops in Imperial stouts often require a longer fermentation time which is, again, perfect for their long trip from England to Russia.
Today, between micro breweries and the many accomplished home brewers that have arisen, Imperial stouts remain popular beers during the winter months when these dark and flavorful brews can often be just the medicine ya need to keep the winter blues away!
If you’ve never enjoyed an Imperial Stout, you should! My favorites I think are Samuel Smith’s Imperial Stout and Siberian Nights from Thirsty Dog – Oh, and Old Rasputen – and Victory’s Storm King……I guess there’s just too many to list – so you’ll have to head out and have a taste test of your own; poor you!
For many people, this time of year is marked by waining light, hence all the celebrations! The dark days can be hard. We don’t have it as bad as some, but, the days are shorter here in Maine in December than where I grew up, and a lot shorter than those in New Mexico (where we spent 10 yrs).
Its not all bad.
The stars are amazing!
Nights spent cozy around the fire reading books or drawing; I long for those on the hot July days!
But, when you’re driving home from school and its dusk….that’s a little trippy!
Lucky for us northern dwelling humans the light comes back as fast as it leaves us so its not long that we must wait; though it may seem that way some days….
So, here’s to the dark, the light and everything in between! Surrender to it all we must and it would be wrong any other way….Doesn’t mean we can’t complain a bit about it!!
I’ve watched The Simpsons since high school (ie – a long time). Mr. T. did too. So, for us, its pretty cool to see that they’re going to be sticking around for at least another year. That makes 23 Seasons….and they’re still funny!!
Its easier since they’re a cartoon, which, by nature opens the door for a lot of different ideas than a sitcom with regular actors has access to. But, it takes a certain group of people to keep us laughing all these years.
Here’s to hopin’ they have at least a few more zingers up their sleeves cause the day The Simpsons goes off the air will be a sad day indeed.
I’m amazed to hear that people actually don’t vote. I’ve voted in every possible election since I was eligible to do so at 18. Its one of the only ways, aside from how we spend our money, that we can make our thoughts and opinions known.
I know it can be easy to become disenchanted, or even disgusted when it comes to politics; many of these folks are pretty shady creatures – or at least being in politics makes them that way.
But, you’ve just got to vote.
Don’t vote blindly. Do your research and see which one would possibly represent you best. Or at least see who is the closest.
If you don’t vote, you don’t participate in the process, and as such, you lose your right to complain about anything these individuals do while in office! You had an opportunity to change things and make them more to your liking byvoting. But, you threw that opportunity right out the window – so – you gave up your voice…which means you gave up your right to take issue with whats going on.
Don’t be lazy. We’re all busy. We all have too much on our plates. But, it honestly takes just a bit of your time; less if you get an absentee ballot.
You really don’t want to throw your voice away. So just go vote will ya!!
Use this link to vote411.org to find out where you need to go, and even more about the races and ballot measures in your area.