“The meaning of life is to enjoy.” – His Divine Grace Srila Prabhupada Baklava…

…that last part of the name makes me hungry for Mexican food! Just kidding, Baklava (Middle Eastern pastry) is not part of his name. Now before I start this blog I just want to say, I have respect and an open mind in regards to other people’s personal religious views.

The other night I was reading The Science of Self-Realization a book from the Krishna Consciousness. The book was most captivating, spiritual arousal manifested to its highest in my mind as I read this book that broke everything down when it came to life’s questions in the most reflective way that even a layman like myself could understand…of course, I was stoned when I read the book. (Warning; DO NOT read Hare Krsna books under the influence especially if you are lost in life. You will wind up with your head shaved and a 21 Jump Street ponytail, looking like a bartender in West Hollywood.) As I read this book, it got me thinking how these religious/spiritual books that talk about love, happiness and being in touch with one’s own Higher Power also pertains to driving as well. I mean think about it. You spend let’s say, 30 minutes going to work and another 30 minutes back home. Five times a week on average, multiply that by 50 weeks a year (one week deducted for vacation and another for sick days)…that’s 250 hours a year! That doesn’t even include all the other times you drive! So driving is a big part of our life, why not enjoy it!? I know this is easier said than done. I know there are times we are in a rush to get to work, an appointment, a date or coming home in the morning after a date before your spouse wakes up. We don’t have time to stop and smell the smog, we need to get there!! I’m not saying to relax to the extent that you are driving like granny on Xanax and Scotch, but maybe just reminding yourself to take it easy every now and then. As a society, it seems like we are always in a hurry to get to our destination, less we forget, the only sure destination is the grave. That was a buzz kill. But if you are always driving like Stevie Wonder hoped up on coke you will get to that destination earlier than expected. Taking a little time to enjoy life may have a profound effect on your driving habits. If you’re not so high-strung from life’s drama episodes, you might not have that much road rage (a lesson I need to learn, too!) and the family dog might not get kicked so much.

Here’s to you finding your happiness (raising a glass) and by the way, I wasn’t smoking weed, stay in school, kids. Keep sending in your comments and emails and join me again next week, until then…

Take care and be safe-

Danny Keaton