I can think of many reasons to enjoy life. How about you? It doesn’t matter what your age or status, life is meant to be enjoyed every moment. But not everyone gets to experience the enjoyment of life for various reasons. There are those with grumpy attitudes who display demeanors of being unhappy most of the time. If you ask what’s bothering them, you will get a lifelong story from beginning to the end about their woes. However, there are others who find happiness and joy in the most unlikely places.
Grammy award-winning acapella singer Bobby McFerrin expresses his feelings by whistling and using his voice emulating an instrument while harmonizing in his popular song, “Don’t Worry Be Happy.” His message to listeners is to not worry about anything and to be happy no matter what time it is or where you live.
The lyrics say, “In every life we have some trouble but when you worry you make it double. Don’t worry be happy. Ain’t got no place to lay your head. Somebody came and took your bed, don’t worry, be happy.” This song was playing as I entered Callaghan Towers, a senior apartment property in Oak Ridge, to help out with a Good Times program.
My spirit was lifted when I saw expressions of joy on the faces of so many residents. They were gathered in small groups and lined up along the hallway in anticipation of the start of a Good Times event. Some stood leaning against the wall for support. Others were in wheelchairs. Some were in their “round-a-bouts” and some stood with the support of a walking cane. I was surprised, and happily so, to see that many had someone with them to help them select the products they most needed. It brought tears of joy to my eyes.
In the community room, I noticed an inscription on the wall that read, “Live well, Laugh often, and Live much.” Those words send a clear message to the residents–and to all of us–to do whatever it takes to experience the enjoyment of life. So, don’t worry, be happy. And Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
By Chaplain Ghosten
chaplain@lhp.net
