The Boomer Guide to Happiness, Lifestyle, Wellness, Aging

As we grow from childhood all the way through our early midlife years, it can often seem that happiness is either something that happens to us out of luck or good fortune, or is something that we have to work hard to earn or deserve. But one of the biggest discoveries as we age beyond midlife is that happiness can also be a choice we make. Following are seven choices that are yours to make, regardless of the circumstances you are facing at any particular moment, guaranteed to bring about the experience of happiness for which you yearn.

Carol Orsborn, Ph.D. is Founder of FierceWithAge, the Digest of Boomer Wisdom, Inspiration and Spirituality. Dr. Orsborn, who earned her doctorate in religion from Vanderbilt University, is the best-selling author of 21 books including her newest book: Fierce with Age: Chasing God and Squirrels in Brooklyn. Dr. Orsborn is a sought after speaker/retreat leader and spiritual director.

Be More Curious Than Afraid

Ishi was the last Native American Indian of his tribe, living in the forest just outside of Oroville, California. At the turn of the century, the great anthropologist Alfred Kroeber took the train from San Francisco to meet him. Ishi was to begin his journey by train to his new home, taking up residence in the museum in San Francisco, where he lived happily for many years. On the day Kroeber came to fetch him, Ishi had hid behind a tree on the station platform, terrified of what appeared to him to be a fire-breathing monster. But still, when Kroeber motioned him on board, he followed. Years later, Kroeber asked him why, given his fears, he had come when called. “Because” Ishi replied “I have learned in life to be more curious than afraid.”