Last night I went to visit a dear neighbour from my old neighbourhood who turned 97 years old this week. There is a group of lovely ladies and gentlemen who annually get together to celebrate Anne. She's an astonishing woman, planting huge gardens every year (she's Ukrainian, like my mom), makes homemade bread every Saturday and was even seen last year climbing a ladder to clean or fix her eaves! I've loved her for years. Last night we were howling and teasing her about some of her antics from years past.
The people who celebrate Anne are a special group; one lady Pat and her partner Bob live in my old home. Ann, the organizer, is just that; always thoughtful, always taking Anne and the neighbours under her wing. Plus, she makes homemade ice cream! It doesn't get better than that. I met other special people too; Anne Marie, Bill and Jallen. You know, I didn't want the evening to end.
There were engaging conversations in a comfortable setting. I was told of a book and website called Authentic Happiness. (www.AuthenticHappiness.com) I shall pick it up today. There was a quiz you could take called VIA Survey of Character Strengths, 240 questions that answer what your top 5 characters strengths are. It turns out my characters strengths are:
1. Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence: I notice beauty and excellence and/or skilled performances in all domains of life, from nature to art to everyday experiences.
2. Love of Learning: learning new things, reading, museums-anywhere and everywhere there is an opportunity to learn.
3. Creativity, Ingenuity and Originality: thinking of new ways to do things; never content with doing something the convential way if a better way is possible.
4. Curiosity and Interest in the World: curious about everything, always asking questions and find all subjects and topics fascinating. I like exploration and discovery.
5. Industry, Diligence and Perseverance: Working hard to finish what is started; no matter what the project, getting it out the door in a timely fashion. No distractions when working and take satisfaction in completing tasks.
Anyway, take the little quiz; it's about 20 minutes but fun to see what you may excel at!
Cheryl Bower
Comments