Who is happy?

I asked myself this question about 2 days ago when I learned of someone’s suicide, someone who was closely connected to my place of work. I didn’t know this person personally, but it was apparently a shock to everyone. No one saw it coming! Bottom line: You never know what’s going on with people.

We all wear masks. I know I do. I think you’re wearing one if you say you don’t. This has been a rough week for me for several reasons (admittedly small reasons, but several, nonetheless), and as I drove to work on Tuesday morning (after hearing of the above-mentioned suicide on the news), I thought to myself how every single car I passed had drivers and/or passengers who are dealing with something. I took comfort in this, in the fact that I am not alone.

Rewind one more day: As I walked into work on Monday morning, with the usual “Good morning” greeting and customary “How are you?”, I passed two or three people who commented on the fact that it was only Monday, that Friday was so far away, and how long the week ahead seemed. I have to admit that I felt the same way and often do on Mondays, but I couldn’t help but wonder, “If you are constantly counting down the days until Friday and living for the weekend, do you really like your job? Are you really happy?” What does this say about us? Sometimes when I think about this, I feel like I am wishing my life away. As my dear friend and co-worker said, “I’m not living in the moment”. Are you? Honestly.

Important Note: Although I made mention of my morning greetings, I feel that I must make it clear that I am NOT a morning person, by any stretch of the imagination!! One of my biggest pet peeves is people approaching me with “heavy” topics first thing in the morning. I can’t handle it. And some mornings, saying “hi” is a “heavy” topic for me. Yes, I am a grump. I hate having to wake up early. I am a coffee addict. And for the safety of those around me, it is best to wait until at least 9:00 before attempting to engage in conversation with me.