Can’t Stop The Feeling

I recently returned from an eight day vacation with my lovely wife and five incredible children.  The destination:  Grandma and Grandpa’s house in Sacramento, California; also in close proximity to my sister, her husband, and their four children.  The fun-filled week consisted of fishing, golfing, rafting, cliff jumping, drive-in movie, pool, sleepover, board games, laser tag, bowling, etc.  These activities were intermingled with meaningful connection with immediate and extended family.  

Upon my return to Orange County, I was overwhelmed with feelings of peace, fulfillment and happiness.  It felt incredible (reminded me of the song from Trolls “Can’t Stop the Feeling”). So incredible, that I wanted to somehow bottle these feelings up and save them for a rainy day when I would need some extra pep in my step.  Since such bottling methods don’t exist I decided the next best thing would be to spend time reflecting, pondering, and gaining understanding as to the origin and reason for this elation.  Such understanding, I hope, will ensure that this feeling doesn’t stop.

“Can’t Stop The Feeling” Insights:

1. Alignment with Core Values:  I have made a deliberate effort over the past several years to live a life of connection, emotional health, intimacy, and fulfillment.  This has not been easy.  It has required much focus, energy, and consistency to persist in this endeavor.  I have been at it so long that a routine has been established that allows for these areas to be filled on a regular basis.  Below are the tangible benefits.     
2. A Clear Conscience:  I strive to live a high moral code that is based upon my religion and core values.  It is a lifetime pursuit to live such standards.  I am not perfect but I feel great about the progress I have made. I feel free of addiction and regret.  I don’t regret the past. The past has made me into who I am and what I am becoming. I am at peace with my maker and my own conscience.
3. A Strong Marriage: My wife and I love and respect each other.  We pray, eat, and have fun with each other every day. We prioritize date night and regular couple time.  We regularly review our marital commitments to remind ourselves of what we need to do to sustain a happy and healthy marriage.  We are human and make mistakes and are willing to apologize for these mistakes.  My marriage has become a foundation upon which I can build a great life.
4. Healthy Children:  Each one of my children are becoming healthy, contributing members of society capable of rearing their own families towards interdependence. This is our goal and they are on track. I take great satisfaction in who they are and pray they will continue in this path.  Raising children is, perhaps, the greatest work in which we can be involved.  I was able to feel this over the past couple of weeks.
5. Extended Family:  I have been blessed with wonderful parents and siblings.   I deeply value the time I spend with them during periodic vacations throughout the year.  I don’t have ill feelings towards any of them.  I love them and they love me.  We get along and I find great satisfaction in being a part of their lives.  I also enjoy my role as uncle.  I love getting to know my nieces and nephews.
6. Financial Stability: I earn, plan, budget, and spend wisely.  These skills allow me to be void of the burden of debt.  I don’t worry about bills being paid or making ends meet.  I earn, plan, budget, and spend wisely so I can live a financially free existence.

My life is full because I have allowed God to make it such by living according to core values.  I am free in my soul, marriage, family, and finances.  Freedom is the reward for living a deliberate life.  I am free to choose the very best things in life and not get swayed by the flashy, sensual things.  I hope this blog entry helps others and myself to stay motivated to focus on not stopping “the feeling” that makes us want to “dance, dance, dance”.