A colorful table with a bouquet of flowers deserves notice. That’s because in this dreary world where everyone agrees that the country is a mess but we’re all divided regarding why, we need more than ever to celebrate the small stuff.

A pop of color here and there, little bits of beauty, and small doses of positivity may be what’s standing between you and the loss of your mental well being.

Turn off the news, stop reading comments and memes, and start snoozing people on Facebook who stress you out. They do not deserve your energy. I have no problem leaving rooms where I do not belong because I would rather be alone than feel preached at or bullied. I would rather keep my circle small than be with people who judge the world and me using their narrow views as guide.

My cat and I are good pals and he has never once ruined my day.

Look for the good stuff – the new music, the volunteers who are improving your community, the sunsets, and the flowers in the window. If you can’t find anything good, maybe it’s time you take matters into your own hands.

Become the volunteer, plant the flowers, adopt a pet, share a meal with a friend, stand outside and watch the new day dawn because living to see a brand new day is worth celebrating.

Do something useful in this world. Even if you are the only person who notices. It’s the only way things will get better.