Enjoying the Happiness of Others

(Written in February 2011)
Had a moment of revelation yesterday.  Driving through the Notch I saw skiers coming down Gary’s and Zoomer, bright waves of snow behind them.  First I felt jealous (I haven’t skied for years because of balance problems) then I remembered/imagined how good it felt to do that, then I was happy for them.  I could just participate in their happiness without having to do it myself.  I have such wonderful memories of skiing, and I realize after a whole day of skiing, memories are all I have.  Why not enjoy them and not ask for more? Being happy for others is the third component of lovingkindness that Sharon Salzberg talks about.  It feels a whole lot better than being jealous.