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November 29, 2004

my moment of Zen

The problem is not materialism as such. Rather, it is the underlying assumption that full satisfaction can arise from gratifying the senses alone. Unlike animals whose quest for happiness is restricted to survival and to the immediate gratification of sensory desires, we human beings have the capacity to experience happiness at a deeper level which, when achieved, can overwhelm unhappy experiences.

-His Holiness the Dalai Lama

From "The Pocket Dalai Lama," edited by Mary Craig, 2002. Reprinted by arrangement with Shambhala Publications, Boston, www.shambhala.com.

Today is my birthday, and I am treating it like the beginning of a new year. Another turn on the wheel, another trip round the sun. I am working on some resolutions, and I will post them later today. Not the usual "I will lose 10 pounds and quit smoking/eating/drinking/living" type of resolutions. Something personal and far more acheivable. For now, I am off to spend the day with one of my dearest friends. I can't think of a better way to celebrate.

it's all about me 08:27 AM | Permalink

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Comments

WOOHOO!!! Happy Birthday, Alicia!

Posted by: *Name Hidden* at Nov 29, 2004 8:47:07 AM

Happy b-day, Alicia! :)

Posted by: Michael Hanscom at Nov 29, 2004 10:34:30 AM

¡Feliz cumpleaños!

Posted by: leslee at Nov 29, 2004 10:38:10 AM

Happy birthday, hurrah hurrah! Do keep us updated on your resolutions and success.

Posted by: Joe at Nov 29, 2004 10:54:07 AM

Happy Birthday! What a great quote for inspiration, too!

Posted by: pam at Nov 29, 2004 10:58:26 AM

Happy birthday! May you carry out each and every resolution you make.

Posted by: David at Nov 29, 2004 11:14:04 AM

::Clears throat:::

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAREST ALICIA HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU.

Posted by: Ali at Nov 29, 2004 12:38:43 PM

Happy birthday!

Posted by: Ana at Nov 29, 2004 2:03:23 PM

Happy Day, Alicia. I hope it was a great one!

Posted by: Doc at Nov 29, 2004 6:14:32 PM

Feliz Cumple Alicia!

Posted by: jon at Nov 29, 2004 6:22:31 PM

A bear-y happy birthday to you, Alicia!

"Sagittarius people need plenty of freedom, because they want to experience as much of life as they can. They are unhappy when tied down to a routine, and happiest when starting off on something new. Walking is a favourite Sagittarian pastime, and many excel at sports. Sagittarians also have restless, adventurous minds, and like to take up new studies. Many Sagittarians are keenly interested in philosophy and the world of ideas, and they also love to have a good time and are fun to be with.
Sagittarius is a fire sign, like Aries and Leo. If you are a Sagittarius, you will probably find that as you grow older you want to travel. You should have a lively and inquiring mind, and will always be asking questions about everything. Above all, you should have great faith in yourself, and your special and unique gift is this ability to wish upon a lucky star and believe your dreams really will come true."
A picture of the Sagittarius Star Cloud:
www.santangeli.net/Album/NewAlbum/PhotoAlbum/LatestPhotos/sagcloud.html

Posted by: Nasreena at Nov 29, 2004 8:05:28 PM

Sorry, I missed it, Alicia. I am glad the day was good. And I hope your new year turns out to be absolutely fantastic. Sending love and good vibes your way.

Posted by: Naomi at Nov 30, 2004 12:04:13 PM

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! (LATE, OF COURSE!)

Posted by: TERESA at Dec 1, 2004 4:32:31 PM