I began 2006 by writing my first article ever. I wrote about embracing changes in my life in pursuit of happiness. In retrospect, I believe now that I was giving myself a bit of a pep talk. To say I was starting the year with challenges would be an understatement. My marriage of fourteen years was ending, something I seemed determined to insure. I felt stagnant at work. My one bedroom apartment was anything but a home. And yet, I had the nerve to write about embracing change.

At the time, I was not convinced that it could work. I was convinced however, that I had to try something. I had given up drinking, and although it had only been a couple of months, I was proud of my small accomplishment. I made only two resolutions: to continue a life of sobriety and to truly apply myself in all aspects to just be happy. Much to my surprise, the first proved to be much easier for me than the second.

Luckily it worked out that way because failure on resolution number one would have doomed resolution number two. Although my desire to find happiness sounds less than concise, I had no other way to get my hands around the concept. I followed simple rules of goal setting like breaking large goals down into smaller, achievable, and measurable goals. The only way I could think of to do this was in time increments. Day by day seemed to fit the bill.

Three hundred and sixty-five little goals, no problem! I woke up each day vowing to take positive steps towards my daily goal. I achieved more than I failed as the year went along. Like everyone, I encountered my share of problematic circumstances and obstacles. If it were not for them, it would have been a piece of cake. But without them, life in a bubble would get lonely.

If I have learned one thing, it is that dealing with adversity in a positive manner is the key to happiness. There is no magic answer. It takes determination and work. I read books, listened to advice from friends and family, but most of all, I worked at it. I worked on me. Slowly, the days of happiness started to string together. Small winning streaks turned into larger ones. Before long there were only fleeting moments of frustration or down times. And even those were bearable.

As the new-year approached, I reflected on my life in 2006. For the first time in many years I had nothing but fond memories. Even the times that were difficult produced some sense of accomplishment for the way I was able to come through them. It was a whirlwind of activity including moving twice, divorce, and putting my dog down. But, it also included an outstanding season on the softball field, travel, buying a new home, and rescuing the most lovable dog in the world from a shelter.

Most of all, it was a year of falling in love again. I met a wonderful woman who came complete with an incredible five year-old son. And, just before Christmas, I learned that I was going to be a father. What started as a vague resolution to be happy has resulted in the most unexpected feeling of all, fulfillment.

I would be remiss if I did not take this opportunity to thank all of those who have helped me in my journey. There are too many to name, but you know who you are. Your support is truly appreciated and I love you all.

Michael Conrad Kelley
http://www.zoochthepooch.com