Subtly, in the little ways, joy has been leaking out of our lives. The small pleasures of the ordinary day seem almost contemptible, and glance off us lightly...Perhaps it's a good time to reconsider pleasure at its roots. Changing out of wet shoes and socks, for instance. Bathrobes. Yawning and stretching. Real tomatoes.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of appreciating small joys in everyday life that we often overlook.
Barbara Holland suggests that in our fast-paced lives, we may have lost sight of the simple pleasures that bring us joy. She encourages us to take a moment to reconsider and cherish these everyday experiences, such as changing out of wet shoes or enjoying fresh tomatoes, which can enhance our well-being and remind us of the beauty in ordinary moments.
In practice
In a speech about mental health, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of recognizing small joys.
The thousands of possible lives that used to spread out in front of me have snapped shut into one, and all I get is what I've got. It's time to pass on the possibilities, all those deliciously half-open doors, to my children, and drive them to the airports, and wish them bon voyage.
Out of moderation a pure happiness springs.
Money doesn't make you happy. I now have $50 million but I was just as happy when I had $48 million.
The sound of laughter is like the vaulted dome of a temple of happiness.
Happiness lies for those who cry, those who hurt, those who have searched, and those who have tried for only they can appreciate the importance of people who have touched their lives.
It is impossible to pursue happiness. Nobody has ever pursued it. One has to wait for it. And it is not a right at all. No law court can force you to be happy or force happiness to be with you. No government violence is capable of making you happy. No power can make you happy.
I have learnt that gardens are like happiness: you cannot pursue them as an absolute thing or moment.
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