real people, real issues, real experiences to be had

This kid.  I don't know how we got him, but he is seriously the happiest thing.  And it's not just that he is happy.  He makes happy.  He actually creates it.  I swear.  I look at him and things feel lighter inside.  I see other people look at him and I can literally see them light up.  It's a gift.  And I'm lucky enough to be his parent.  

 I really do feel lucky.  I know not all babies are like this.  I know he may not be like this forever.  But I feel lucky to have him now.  Sure he complains every now and then.  Don't we all.  But, in general, this kid exudes joy.  

 Just the other day, we were at the pool and he took to marching/waddling around the pool.  Just walking and walking.  At first just Eva was following him.  Then another kid joined in, then another, then another.  Half a dozen kids were just following this happy kid around the pool.  I really think the kids could feel the happy.  They wanted some, too.  

 And I say, there are few people these days that will just give out that happy with no strings attached, expecting nothing in return.  But Maximus will.  Just by being.  He does.

Tonight, as I was fretting over some pretty petty social stuff, my good friend reminded me that there are real people, real issues, real experiences to be had.  It's something I have kind of been forgetting lately.  And maybe to most it is obvious.  But, well, me?  I have been getting down about things that don't matter.  And that's dumb.  So, this is my new mantra...

There are real people, real issues, real experiences to be had. 

I think I have been giving too much head space to issues that don't matter and experiences that, sure, are fun but not really fulfilling, and to people that don't really care about either of those things.  Fact is, not everyone values the same thing. What a great reminder this was.  No time for fake stuff, right?

I am pretty sure I will never be able to make happy the way that Maximus does.  That is his gift.  But I can look at my life this far and say that I have really contributed in other ways. And the people that I feel closest to are those that I think, like to contribute too. 

I'm so thankful for Maximus, that little ball of happy.  And for good friends that remind me of what is important in life.