Thursday 4 December 2014

The secret to a happy life? "Be generous"

This post has little to do with Estonia. Maybe the mere fact that last weekend we went to the Dark Nights Film Festival to see the British movie "Hector and the search for Happiness". Although the movie was entertaining and raised interesting questions, it is nothing remarkable. 

What is remarkable, is that - probably through an association process - Katri reminded me that precious moment last winter with my grandparents...  We were sitting together at their home, holding a small talk until nonno (grandpa) reminded us that they have been married for over 65 years! Nowadays it seems impossible. So, "What is the secret of such a long marriage?" Nonna (grandma) answers: "Patience". Nonno thinks a bit longer, nods at himself, and says "Generosity".  

If there is one thing that I hope I'll never forget about my grandfather is this simple lesson about life and happiness. It makes a lot of sense although it seems to become rare in our world.