Chai, Chillum, Chapati!

This will go down as an epic week in history without a doubt.  Too many wonderful happenings have passed through my world  in just the past 5 days that I feel compelled to share this information in the hope that it ripples your way.

I'll start with some exciting legislation from the beautiful US of A. We've had our fair share of poor decisions on the equal rights front, but not this week following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn DOMA, also known as the Defense of Marriage Act.  The act, no doubt raised by a bunch of closed minded crazies and nurtured for the past 13 years by a cloud of terrorism, defines marriage as a recognized federal union strictly between one man and one woman, thus inhibiting same sex couples exempt from federal benefits such as social security survivors' benefits, insurance benefits, immigration and tax filing.  Moving forward, same sex marriages will have federal benefits.  This is a HUGE step in the right direction, and I hope it brings about more positive change at a state level.  If you'd like to know more about this or any other American news from a recommended source, seek out this news source for more information:  NPR.   YAY USA!

Positivity has been showing itself with the environment as well!  The scientific community has put their stamp on the health benefits of tree hugging.  Literally.  So don't try and kill your loneliness or unhappiness spending your money frivolously or walking downtown.  Go to a park, save your money, and hug a tree.  We just got a couple house plants, Zoe & Virgil, and they are fantastic!  Every morning I come out and ask them how their night was and if they're enjoying the beautiful day so far.  The other day we put out an apple that had started going bad and Zoe & Virgil had some birds over for brunch. AND, they've even helped me make some new friends in the building as we're going to be needing a plant sitter while away next week.  Plants are awesome & pretty easy maintenance - gotta love that!  When you're alone and life is making you lonely you can always go. . .outside.  Petula Clark had it all wrong, don't go downtown, get a house plant!
The haze has also lifted off Singapore pretty significantly this week!  Work hooked us up with hospital masks to help avoid breathing in the nasty, but looks like I'll retire that until either I need to fights off H1N1 or play a psychotic nurse at Halloween. . .

In personal news, I received my diploma from my applied positive psychology courses I was taking last summer/fall and even made high distinction.  It is hilarious to me good a silly piece of paper can derive a feeling of accomplishment.  People should give out awards more often just to tell one another they are appreciated. . .noted.

I've also been a lot happier and think it's been a result of being more present and saying yes.  A great example of that is the free shampoo and blow dry I got while walking by Somerset the other day.     Something special happens when you open yourself up and step away from future hopes or retrospective regrets.  You make connections - with yourself and others. Lounging, playing & listening to new music, singing, and writing have connected my thoughts.  Getting my sweat & stretch on  has reconnected my body.  Given the tingling in my arms there have definitely been some veins crunched tight by awkward plane sleep. . .I can happily report a few of them are back in business.  It never ceases to amaze me how amazing stretching feels. . .it also happens to be one of my favorite words.

I'll leave you with this awesome song my friend Rupak shared with me. . .

Chai Chillum Chapati Connection!
(tea, pipe, cheers)

Be happy. . .and don't forget to stretch,
Z