
This month’s blog had me baffled as to what I wanted to share as I considered a life-elevating, thought-provoking topic relative to the life experience of aging. I decided rather than try to overcome the challenge of creativity and indecision, to keep things simple. Acknowledging the month is March…I decided to write about just THAT!
March…the third month of the year. Named for the Roman God “Mars”. Also typically viewed as the first month of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. March is a quiet acknowledgement stirring within most of us that the chill of winter will shortly come to an end. We will soon bask in warmer climates and experience the transition into a new season of sports, celebratory gatherings, and more outdoor activities.
I think of spring break—spring boarding us swiftly into summer break—at the blink of an eye. Excitement and anticipation of activities and even some well-deserved relaxation are all right on our horizons—in March.
It seems March is the month to celebrate many things; from March 31st, “National Clam on the Half Shell Day,” to “Poultry Day” on the 19th. The 15th of March brings the infamous “Ides of March,” the first day of the Roman New Year and the day in 44 BC, that despite forewarning, Julius Caesar was met with his demise at the hands of Marcus Brutus. March rings in with the 1st day being “Peanut Butter Lovers’ Day,” and service men and women should go public on March 4th for their share of massive PDA, love and appreciation on “Hug a GI Day.” There seems to be a day for everyone…and even—EVERY ONE of YOU--with with March 5th being “Multiple Personality Day!”
Of course, we know about Good Friday and Easter, but had you heard of “Panic Day," "Dentist Day," "Dumbstruck Day" and "Submarine Day?” (The edible kind, not submersible) -- There seems to be days in March that appeal to just about anybody! But, enough of that—the days that struck my attention were a little less entertaining and more personally resonating.
Following right after “Old Stuff Day,” on March 2nd, is today…the day I am writing this. It’s my personal “pick” in March’s eclectic potpourri lineup of days, deemed “I Want You to Be Happy Day.” I must admit, March 30th pairs nicely with today, ringing in “I am in Control Day.”
So hidden between and amongst “Something on a Stick Day,” “Melba Toast Day,” “Extraterrestrial Abductions Day,” and “Johnny Appleseed Day,” are these remarkable days that I feel could really use a 365-day commemorative platform and reverence.
“I want you to be Happy” and “I am in Control” are just the message I want to convey for March! Be happy on March 8th, which is by the way, “Be Nasty Day!” And feel free to feel in control on March 15th, designated “Everything You Think is Wrong Day!.”
“I want you to be Happy Day” is about more than just being happy. It is also an unselfish day. A day we go the extra mile to please others and cherish those around us. Doing so can cost nothing more than your time. Smile at someone and see if they smile back. Pick up the phone and make a phone call to someone who would enjoy hearing from you. Bake an extra portion and share it with a friend or neighbor. Send an email, just because. There are so many inexpensive ways to create happiness, and you are in control of accomplishing them!
But while you’re out there creating happiness, remember—it all starts at home. Be happy yourself! You can’t give away what you don’t have and so I want you to celebrate March 3rd and March 30th all year long! If your persistent and perpetual actions and reactions are to be consciously happy and in control, I reckon you’ll have a pretty fantastic day, week, month, spring, summer, fall, and ultimately year--and LIFE! Being happy can add years to your life, promotes health and well-being, and enhances your overall living experience! It's good for the mind, body and spirit of both you and those you hold dear!
Happy March, everyone! Be happy, be in control—but just be sure you do it with flair, finesse, and FUNctionality!