Is Everybody Happy?

As the old song says, "Make someone happy / Make just one someone happy / And you will be happy too."  That simple truth slides by so many people.  Look around you, how many people do you know who are not happy?  Do you see friends and family who are hurting, distressed, worried or discouraged?  We live in difficult times and unhappiness has become a way of life for people.

                The eighth point of the Scout Law states: A Scout is cheerful. He smiles whenever he can. His obedience to orders is prompt and cheery. He never shirks nor grumbles at hardship. To be cheerful and positive is not living in an unreal world where you pretend that everything is okay. It is rather the ability to stay positive in the midst of hardship and trial. It takes great strength and courage to be a cheerful person.

“The most worth-while thing is to try to put happiness into the lives of others.”

– Sir Robert Baden-Powell

(1857-1941) Founder of the Boy Scouts

                You now have an opportunity to become a hero.  Make someone happy.  That may seem like a big order but it really is very simple.  Here are a few ways you can spread some happiness wherever you go and make someone's life a bit better, not to mention that you will enjoy it too.

Smile at Everyone

                Nothing is easier than a smile.  As you pass people on the street, in the office or store, give them a simple smile and move on.  No need to talk or stop what you are doing, just smile.  Those who are having a bad day will see that someone is happy.  I am not saying that their life will change just because you smiled at them, but you never know.

Speak A Few Kind Words

                When you are standing with someone you never met, or waiting in line, smile at them and say something encouraging and kind.  What I have often seen are people standing in line and one says to the other, "What is the problem that things are moving so slow?"  That is not encouraging.  All that does is spread the anger.  Talk about things that are positive and uplifting.  Not as hard as it sounds.

Be Helpful and Enjoy It

                Open a door for someone, help them with their packages, or allow them to step in front of you in line.  Little kindnesses do so much to help lift the spirits of others and show them you care.  None cost you anything and the rewards are endless.  Simple acts of kindness are a wonderful way to spread a bit of happiness.

                It does not take a lot of effort or time to make those around you feel you care and to make them happy.  The great side benefit of all this is that you will be happier in the process.  It is impossible to make others happy and not become happy yourself.  Try it and find out.

You matter!  You matter to the world and to yourself.  Remember to be your best, love God, have good manners, achieve the unknown and change your world.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program, however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2019 John Patrick Hickey