On a quieter note, I am trying to practice what I preach and live
a healthier and happier life personally. I have taken up Yoga again
after two decades and remain an avid walker. I am happy to see that
the beneficial effects of walking are getting the kind of media
attention that they deserve. Not only is walking great exercise,
but it puts us in touch with nature, my neighbors and the seasons.
I believe, as Benjamin Franklin said, that happiness derives more
from small pleasures practiced daily than from huge windfalls that
occur infrequently. In this regard, I continue to benefit from the
wisdom of my elderly mother who takes pleasure in everyday activities:
driving herself to the supermarket, teaching bridge, watching sports
on TV, and gambling in the local casinos. She is always interested
in everything and everybody – and actually remembers what
you tell her.
So, I take pleasure in the changing seasons, the arrival of spring,
the many colors in my summer garden, the falling leaves, and finally
the ultimate challenge – winter with its bleak beauty.
So I leave you with that for now.
Best Wishes
Norman E. Rosenthal, M.D.
