My Idea of “a Really Happy Woman.”

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XLI, Issue 5, 29 July 1908, Page 65

My Idea of “a Really Happy Woman.”

The really happy woman does exist, though we are apt to overlook her quiet presence in the noisy circle of the discontented and unsatisfied by whom she is surrounded. For somehow her voice is seldom heard. It seems unnecessary for her to sound her own joy-bells, though her less-favoured sisters do not hesitate to send forth the town-crier with the news of their domestic discords, or to publish in hourly editions the history of undeserved sorrows and misfortunes. The really happy woman is not "smart.” Her frocks are never described as “creations” in the society columns, and her name is rarely there. She does not confuse the terms “happiness” and "pleasure,” for she realises the wide difference between them. She knows that happiness is “gun-shy” and elusive game, which seldom falls to the bag of the hunter; but rather comes shyly and quietly and unsought as one sits in a garden with book or work, in the nursery with the babies, or in any spot remote from the “madding crowd.” PLAYS BRIDGE SHOCKINGLY. The happy woman, as a rule, plays bridge shockingly. Because her bead is full of other matters she cannot concentrate on the “hand” before her, and being liable to revoke, is not sought as a partner. She probably thinks of Bobbie’s "best suit” instead of her opponents, and she values a warm hug and a sticky kiss from little Dolly far more than four aces or a grand slam in “no trumps.” If she is married, she will with her heart in her eyes, wax eloquent over her husband and children; and she will be equally appreciative of yours. It is unintelligible to her that an acquaintance should boast that she has not spent a quiet evening at home for three weeks, that she has no idea who mends her husband’s or brother’s socks —or, indeed, whether they are ever mended at all—that she doesn’t know for certain the ages of her children, or the wages of her servants. The happy woman i s well versed in these matters. She has an ample heart and wide judgment, and does not think that small domestic matters or the minutest details for the comfort of those about her and beneath her notice, THINKS OF “HOME” FIRST. She takes pride more in the adorning of her house than in the trimming of her hats, more pleasure in a new frock for Doily than in one for herself. Most of her spare hours are devoted to knitting woolly comforts for the family, stitching pretty chair coverings for the drawingroom, or in some way benefiting and beautifying the home. To the happy woman “the home” is ever the first consideration. But she always has an hour or two to devote to the papers and the new book her husband is reading; she must have a knowledge of the affairs and thought of the day, or Would be poor company in the evenings. She is apt to look “out of it" at a gay party where the conversational intercourse consists chiefly of smart repartee and meaningless chatter. She certainly is not enjoying herself, and is full of wonder as to why she came. For she realises that there is more happiness to be got from superintending the nursery baths, and tucking little persons snugly in their cots than in being one of a crowd at a big "At Home,” or the partner of unknown young men at a dance. But she is never “a wet blanket.” She plays a sympathetic part, even though it be merely that of onlooker. And in the interests of a husband or daughter, who enjoys these little gaieties-, she puts her own feelings aside. Besides which an occasional evening no spent has the advantage of increasing her appreciation of "home, sweet home.” MAKES CAKES—AND ALLOYANCES. Tn lier own home she is pre-eminent. SVhether it consists of two rooms or twenty, the warmth of her welcome, her

consideration for your present comfort and your general welfare, will promote the impression that you are being royally entertained. She will dispense tea with a genial hospitality that will give to this common beverage an unaccustomed fragrance; under her magic influence the muffins and home-made cake will have a delicious flavour hitherto undiscovered. The “perfectly-contented woman” has mastered the art of “making allowances” for others. Otherwise her peace is liable to be disturbed by fancied grievances and imaginary slights. If she looks to the world to give her the same generous treatment as she is prepared to give it her confidence will not, generally speaking, be misplaced. This truly happy woman is not a mere creature of circumstances; for when these change she still remains the same. Her brightness is all the more needful if hqr husband loses money or health, or some other shadow threatens to darken the home. The sunshine of her smile can penetrate the darkest clouds. Her cheery voice can bring hope to the most despondent. She has the optimism which teaches “never say die,” and the great heart which grudges no man his services, no woman her good fortune. © © ©