What greater thing is there for two human souls, than to feel that they are joined for life--to strengthen each other in all labor, to rest on each other in all sorrow, to minister to each other in all pain, to be one with each other in silent unspeakable memories at the moment of the last parting? ~ George Eliot, Adam Bede Happiest Places On the backdrop of the beautiful Caribbean ocean, I want to share a reflection on relationships. The popularized tagline of Disneyland is "The Happiest Place On Earth." For many Disneyland may very well be, but, consider something much deeper like the space between you and another, especially close relationships. Eric Weiner, the author of the book The Geography of Bliss: One Grump’s Search for the Happiest Places in the World, observed, “the happiest places on earth are not internal ones. They are not geographical ones. It’s the places between us and the closer they are the more at ease we are the happier they tend to be.”

Do you feel accepted by others? Are those in your life supportive? Do you have a strong inner circle of friends? When life has you down, do those you thought would have your back come through? Do you have an authentic sense of belonging?

A relationship is, in essence, a connection with another individual and in our daily lives, it can come in many forms. A relationship may be described as familial, romantic, a friendship, an acquaintance, collegiate, or professional. Let’s face it, relationships have a colossal impact on our lives. Some can be uplifting and others can be discouraging. Can you think of any of your existing relationships that zap your energy and wear you down?

Life is a song - sing it. Life is a game - play it. Life is a challenge - meet it. Life is a dream - realize it. Life is a sacrifice - offer it. Life is love - enjoy it.~Sai Baba Are you doing what you always dreamed of doing? Are you living a blissful life at home and work? Do you feel like you are living each day to the fullest? How would you spend each day or the last week of your life if you knew it was your last? Easter Sunday reminds me of forgiveness, second chances, sacrifice, hope, new beginnings and possibilities. Let’s think about it, the story of Jesus’ last week on earth as a human being was riveting. His life and the life of others who crossed his path were filled with wondrous acts, profound prayer, realized prophecies, rich conversation, mesmeric moments and game-changing events for all of mankind. He knew his life would end at week’s end, even so, He did not waste any time. He marched towards living a meaningful, passionate and impactful life.

Personal fulfillment is profound and persistent satisfaction with yourself and your situation. It is feeling exceedingly pleased about your desires and needs being realized. I get it! Fulfillment sounds like a super idea. For some of you, it may seem unimaginable. The challenge for many of us is: understanding it, finding it, and moving boldly on the path towards it.

Joy is a sustained sense of well-being and internal peace - a connection to what matters. ~ Oprah Joy Revealed What’s your idea of joy? What awakens feelings of calm, peace, and contentment in you? Joy is a sense of well-being. It springs from spiritual connectedness that creates an inner calm, peace and contentment. It warms your heart and soul. Getting up to greet the sunrise, driving the scenic route to the office or hearing my sister’s lovely voice when she sings Louis Armstrong’s, What a Wonderful World. The feeling of joy is not ephemeral. It is long-lasting. So much so that when I think of these examples along with others, immense contentment gushes within. What evokes joy for you?