Count your blessings carefully.

Think of them, appreciate each.

Marinate them in fresh laughter

(when was the last time you laughed?)

and a few drops of tears

(for sanity and balance.)

Sieve belief carefully

culling all the blind spots

and information derived from media

and loud talking individuals

and add it to the mix.

Add love if available.

Make sure it is fresh,

not stagnant. Look around you,

it’s out there somewhere:

in the eyes of a parent,

in the smile of a child,

in the warmth of your pet?

Take a wok

heat the silence till smoking.

Add rage and wait

till it starts to sputter.

Make a paste of regret

and fears and throw it out.

Saute well, add humour

and the marinated blessings

fry on high heat for two minutes

till the blessing are pliant and kind.

Season with friendship

and garnish with finely chopped

duties and ambition.

Enjoy contentment!