Schadenfreude

Such an odd word. Means taking joy in others' misfortunes. Very human thing to do at times, though I doubt many would condone if questioned. But maybe even then, unfortunately.

Scott Adams' 'Dilbert' comic strip makes pretty good use of this concept.

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Trust takes a long time to earn, and only a moment to damage.

Sometimes we're constrained. Only have so much to give.

Choices. Choices to love, to give up, to try again, to trust. To forgive.

Fair. Unfair. Sometimes not enough to go around. Not just money. Energy, time, attention, patience. Choose, plan, flex, sacrifice. In a word: Give.

It's been interesting reading Martin Seligman's 'Authentic Happiness' - still pretty skeptical about the ability to simply choose to be happy though. My loss, probably. Reading continued through Peter's piano lesson, he's got a good ear, the teacher asked if he gets it from me. She's so encouraging, deliberately so. Lots of students, and manages to keep a positive focus for them. Deliberate choice to do so. A lot like Seligman's book.

Need to put together a presentation for work. Perfectionism looms, need to put it aside - again - and tell the simple story. It's a good story, doesn't need to be complicated or hidden in complex terminology. Simple is good, more substantial.

Getting late. I have index cards that stick to the wall, can be repositioned. Maybe some day these will be useful.

I pray every night. Got a list of people, some I know, some I only know a little about. You're probably one of them, at some point anyway. Thought you'd like to know.

Off to bed. Valentine's Day tomorrow. First Valentine sent in 1415 from the Tower of London - heard that on the radio this morning. Guess it's on display there. Have a good night.