Hap Hapner

I like to fool myself … that I’m not playing the same game as everyone else … that I have it all figured out.

I’m not playing for money.

I’m not playing for recognition.

I’m not playing at all.

I’m living.

I am only fooling myself.

Living is a strange thing.

Pursuit. Goals. Achievement.

Anxiety. Security. Disappointment.

Stop and notice.

Stop and appreciate.

Places. People. The art of nature.

Imaginary problems. Self-doubt.

These devour the now – this moment.

This very moment.

Being with people is more important than impressing people.

Connection far outweighs fame or fortune.

Time together may not look good on your resume but feels wonderful in your essence.

Time together provides sustaining memories.

Show up for those you love.

Simple kindnesses …, small gestures build relationships.

Be reliable for your friends.

Too many are reliable for their employer and not their family.

Go for quality, integrity, and dignity in your relationships.

Warmth and trust far out live every flash of passion or obsession.

Resentment, bitterness, and grudges kill the human essence.

Avoid these three at all costs. They imprison the human essence.

Find what matters in each moment. Do it. Feed it. Nurture it.

When you fail, do the next right thing.

This is personal integrity.

No, N-O, is the most important word in every language.

Expressing compassion through words and actions is the second.

Love need not be glamorous, but it must be affectionately expressed in everyday ways.

Exhaustion is not a badge of honor to be proudly worn. Exhaustion is the folly of immaturity. Listen to your body. Care for your body. You will not receive another.

A relentless pace puts you at odds with yourself.

Rest more. Sleep more. Care for your body.

Stop chasing happiness and be happy in the moment.

This moment.

Enjoy that drink.

Relish the gardening.

Find joy in watching a child play.

Sit together peacefully without a word between you.

Do not block happiness from being part of your daily experience.

---

Winter 2026 after reading an article on happiness. I’ve tried to find the article to cite it but alas it is gone. If you stumble across the article let me know so I can cite it.