The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

~Marcel Proust, French novelist, essayist, and critic (1871-1922)

My friend, Patty, has seen some bluebirds outside her window recently. A few days of warmer weather seem to have brought these bright signs of springtime back early to their northern territory. Just the sight of these happy little creatures–perched on a fence post, singing their hearts out–gives a welcome lift to Patty’s spirits.

For many years, the Eastern Bluebird, with its vibrant sky-blue feathers and cheerful song, has been a symbol of contentment and good fortune. In Belgian poet and playwright Maurice Maeterlinck’s 1908 allegorical play, entitled “The Bluebird,” two children search the world over for happiness in the form of a bluebird, but to no avail. The children return home downhearted, only to discover the little songster was right there all along—in their very own backyard.

We may think that the sources for our happiness are to be found in some far-off, distant place. It’s good to remember that the joys and delights we seek may already be in our possession—perhaps even in our own backyards.

What’s in your backyard that gives you happiness? Take a moment and look, with fresh eyes. You may be surprised by the simple beauties you discover.

With love for Dad, who first shared the story of “The Bluebird” with me.