Hello my eagles…

Today I want to talk about something simple, yet deeply personal: what makes you happy?

This question came up in a conversation with my partner. I asked her, “What should I write about in this instalment?” And she said, “Why not ask—what makes you happy?”

That stopped me in my tracks.

Because honestly, when was the last time you asked yourself that?

But before I dive into what makes me happy, I want this instalment to be about you.

Yes—you, staring into your screen right now.

Already I’m breaking the fourth wall, and I’m not sorry for it.

Have you taken a moment lately to ask yourself:

What do I really enjoy doing?

And

No, I’m not talking about going out and getting drunk.

I mean your hobbies. Your passions. The things that make your soul feel alive.

Maybe it’s music that lifts you.

Maybe it’s painting, writing, walking in nature.

Maybe it’s reading scripture, journaling, or just sitting in silence.

The reason I ask is this:

I’ve been watching the news lately… and it’s heavy.

Violence. Murders. Suicide.

It’s like the world is screaming, and we’ve forgotten how to listen to our own hearts.

This is the exact reason why I set up this website.

So people could come to a safe place called Hope for Minds—a space where we can comfort each other, share our stories, and remind one another that joy still exists.

Even in the chaos.

Even in the silence.

And let me be clear:

I do not judge people.

All are welcome here.

No matter your past, your doubts, your struggles, or your story—this is a place of grace.

A place to breathe.

A place to heal.

I created this site for everyone—not just for those suffering with mental health.

Whether you’re thriving, searching, grieving, or simply curious… this space is yours too.

Because happiness, reflection, and hope belong to all of us.

And just to be transparent with you: I do not suffer with murderous thoughts or suicidal thoughts.However, I did experience suicidal thoughts during my first set of medication.

It was a dark and confusing time—but thankfully, I did not listen to those thoughts.

I held on.

I’m here now, writing this to you.

That’s why I believe so deeply in creating spaces like this—where honesty and hope can coexist.

What Makes Me Happy?

Now, if you’re still reading, I’ll share a few things that bring me joy.

Reading the Bible—the living word.

Sitting in silence with scripture, letting it breathe life into my creative process.

Watching the sunset.

Birdwatching.

Plane-spotting.

Listening to audiobooks.

These are just some of the things I do to keep myself calm and relaxed.

They help me take my thoughts away from my mind and from the weight of the world.

They remind me that peace is possible—even in the midst of noise.

These things don’t fix everything.

But they remind me who I am.

They remind me that joy isn’t loud—it’s faithful.

So, my eagles…

What makes you happy?

Write it down.

Say it out loud.

Share it with someone.

Or just hold it close.

Because your joy matters.

And in this noisy world, it might be the most radical thing you carry.

A Gentle Challenge

Before you go, I want to leave you with a challenge.

Try something new this week.

Pick up the Bible—even if it’s just one verse.

Or try something you’ve never done before: birdwatching, journaling, painting, walking without your phone.

Do something that lifts your mind out of the noise and reminds you that you are not alone.

You were never meant to carry everything by yourself.

And you don’t have to.

Here’s a verse that speaks to this truth:

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

— Matthew 11:28, NKJV

Let that sink in.

You are seen.

You are invited.

You are welcome here.

creator of hope for minds

daniel