1. A bittersweet longing for things, persons, or situations of the past.
In Modesto, California there is a whole month of celebrating the movie, American Graffiti. Every weekend in June, there are car shows, music entertainment and many special events. Friday there was a parade with over 1000 classic cars lead by George Lucas, moviemaker, who was the Grand Marshal. All weekend long there was cruising, car shows, and music which will continue every weekend at a different venue.
What attracts us to these times?
Why do we feel so excited by the sight of muscle cars, rock out to a song from our youth or feel happy when we look at photo albums?
Nostalgia is present everywhere.
Recently at a college graduation I overheard a student in a cap and gown remark, "Now it's real life, I wish I had" and we can fill in the blank with what is important to us.
Kindergarteners can't wait to play on the big playground but when they are in sixth grade they fondly remember the special attention they received as a wee one.
Parents do this a lot, thinking about how when little Susie or Sam was oh so cute.
When we are young we wish we were older,
and then we long for the "good old days" as we age.
Reminiscing and reflecting on our past can increase our happiness.
Increased positive emotions, escaping from the present and generating pleasure are some of the many benefits of a positive reminiscence that are listed in Chapter 4 of The Happiness Journey.
This textbook is from a class on happiness based on research and science and explains that when you reminisce you are "better able to resist stress and enjoy".
Savoring the past can be a good way to celebrate with loved ones, friends, co-workers or anyone.
Many of the movies today are remakes of old ones.
Recording artists put their own spin on new versions of favorite songs from the past.
Vintage furniture is new again.
We like the familiar knowing.
It gives us a good feeling.
Sharing experiences is fun.
There will be many reunions this summer.
Family reunions, high school reunions, military war buddy reunions, and other reunions.
These reunions will be nostalgic.
There will be a longing for times long ago or maybe even yesterday.
Savor today so you can reminisce tomorrow.
Please contact me if you are interested in studying the science of happiness based on cutting edge research so you can learn new concepts which lead to...
you. happier.
beckywilbur@yahoo.com or https://www.hapacus.com
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