The small, silly things

Divya Ramachandran
4 min readFeb 1, 2024

--

Are we paying enough attention to this?

Every day in the morning, I make the perfect cup of tea. I mash a little ginger, add some cardamom and sprinkle a bit of saffron on top to add to the flavor. I let the mix boil for a little more, till the flavors seep in. Then I pour it in my cup and get into a mode of meditation.

That one cup of tea at the beginning of the day allows me to get through the day with a sense of calm, yet flavor! My day is as good as the tea I make!

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to forget the magic that lies in the whimsical and nonsensical. So, here’s my proposition let’s make room for those small, seemingly pointless acts that bring an instant smile to our faces without any grand agenda.

These seemingly pointless endeavors are a rebellion against the pressure to always be serious. They’re a reminder that life isn’t just about ticking off checkboxes or achieving monumental goals; it’s about those small, seemingly trivial moments that add a splash of color to our days.

The bits of silliness we add aren’t just a luxury; they’re a form of self-care. They inject a bit of lightness into our routines, giving us a break from the seriousness of adulting. By letting ourselves be a little bit goofy, we tap into a well of creativity and playfulness that can bring a positive vibe to everything we do.

Making life brighter is often about cultivating a positive mindset, appreciating the present moment, and infusing joy into your daily experiences. Let’s take a moment to appreciate and celebrate these simple pleasures that make life brighter:

Morning Sunlight:

There’s something truly special about the soft glow of morning sunlight streaming through your window. It’s a gentle reminder of a new day and a fresh start.

Having lived in Bangalore for many years, the morning sunlight is just gorgeous, especially during the spring season. I wake up feeling grateful for the rays of the sun falling into my room and the positivity it brings.

A Hot Cup of Coffee or Tea:

The comforting warmth of your favorite beverage can be a small, daily ritual that brings a sense of coziness and satisfaction.

Unexpected Kindness:

Whether it’s a smile from a stranger, a thoughtful gesture, or a random act of kindness, these moments have the power to uplift your spirits.

I recently went to a temple, and we had to leave our shoes outside at a paid counter. We had to pay by cash only, which hardly any of us carry now a days. But a stranger offered to give the shoe-man Rs.5 to cover for me. No matter the amount, the instant thought of covering for me made me feel good.

Freshly Baked Goods:

The aroma of freshly baked bread, cookies, or pastries can instantly create a sense of comfort and indulgence. Well, just smell them, don’t eat them hehe. I’ve always wondered if there were perfumes with the aroma of ‘cookie dough’ and ‘coffee’.

Laughter:

The infectious sound of genuine laughter, whether it’s from a friend, a family member, or even a funny video, has the power to brighten any day.

A Good Book or Movie:

Getting lost in the pages of a captivating book or being engrossed in a compelling movie can transport you to different worlds and provide a welcomed escape.

I sat and binge watched ‘Beef’ the other day. It was a critically acclaimed series, and worth the watch. The screenplay was brilliant!

Nature’s Beauty:

The sight of blooming flowers, a vibrant sunset, or the rustling of leaves in the wind can bring a profound sense of peace and connection to the world around you.

I haven’t been doing much of this lately, unless you count me staring at a huge tree outside my window as and when I write every day. I should do more of this! You should do more of this!

Cuddling with Pets:

The unconditional love and joy that come from spending time with furry friends can be a constant source of happiness.

Expressive Art:

Engaging in creative activities, whether it’s drawing, painting, or crafting, allows for self-expression and a sense of accomplishment.

A Cozy Blanket:

Wrapping yourself in a soft, cozy blanket can provide a feeling of comfort and security, especially on chilly days.

Finding Money in Your Pocket:

The surprise discovery of forgotten money in your pocket is a small yet delightful moment that can bring a smile to your face. Money always feels good, doesn’t it?

Completing a To-Do List:

Crossing off tasks on your to-do list, no matter how small, can bring a sense of achievement and productivity.

Finishing something has always brought me a lot of joy. It’s the sense of completion that brings in a feeling of confidence!

Listening to Your Favorite Song:

The power of music to evoke emotions and uplift your mood is truly remarkable. Put on your favorite song and let yourself be carried away.

I miss the 90's! Take me back!

A Hug:

The warmth and connection of a genuine hug can convey a multitude of emotions and provide comfort during both joyful and challenging times.

Stargazing:

Taking a moment to look up at the night sky and marvel at the stars can instill a sense of wonder and perspective.

Let’s cherish these small but mighty sources of joy in our lives, recognizing that happiness often resides in the simplicity of everyday moments. So, what do you do to make every day more fun and enjoyable? What small things do you recognize through the day that make you happier about life?

--

--

Divya Ramachandran
Divya Ramachandran

Written by Divya Ramachandran

A lover of experiences, a gifted soul.

Responses (1)