Finding joy in the everyday

" Despite more process, privilege and possessions than ever before, we are worried all the time.  The more we have the more we worry. Why, because we have more to lose. We use up much of our lives trying to insulate ourselves against insecurities, We worker harder, buy more, accumulate, set aside, save, hoard, buy locks and security systems and maximise insurance — and much of this activity is driven by worry, anxiety and a relentless discontent " from Contentment: The Secret of a Lasting Calm by Richard Swenson And money makes us more anxiety than almost anything else.  A new study shows two million Australians are experiencing high financial stress which prevents them from coping in difficult situations, for example, in paying unexpected expenses such as a big mobile phone bill or the fridge breaking down.  One in two adults have limited to no savings. Household finances lead to more arguments in marriage than almost anything else and it leads to divorce....

There are very few things in life that are free — or it can certainly feel that way? Day-to-day living is pretty expensive and most people are fed up with always handing out money — bills seem to be going up, the price of food, clothing, utilities, all those extra charges and taxes. Once $50 could last ages in one's wallet, now it can go in a few moments at the supermarket with very little in return. It can all get very depressing.  But, there are many things that are free but sometimes we forget about them. So here is a list to remind us all of the many wonderful things in life that are as free as a bird and are waiting for us to enjoy. Some of these things may not seem to be very important — quite trivial but without them, our lives would not be as rich or as joyful.  So the next time you feel weighed down with all those bills, remember the long list of things that are free that will bring happiness and joy to your day. The bible A glorious sunrise ...