Feeling happy?

I was hurrying just a bit to mail a package at the post office when I noticed the man standing behind me.

He was talking on his cell phone, and I suddenly felt annoyed about his “noise pollution.” Because I was tired and I had had a busy day, it didn’t take much to make me feel annoyed. 

Then, the man started laughing. A loud, hearty laugh.

The woman standing in front of me looked at me, smiled and said, “Doesn’t it make you feel good to hear someone so happy?”

I smiled back at her.  Suddenly, I didn’t feel annoyed any more, and I felt a little happier. It was a good reminder of how much my perspective can influence whether I am feeling happy or annoyed.

–Joy