A well-lived life includes difficult times. Each of us could make lists of horrible things we have endured. But I’m mad at myself when I give in to self-pity. Even in the worst times, I still have a lot of reasons to be happy. And I have learned that nothing productive comes from wallowing. Dwelling on the bad stuff is exhausting and pointless.
But refusing to have bad days doesn’t mean I put on blinders. It means I’m open to the day’s goodness and grateful for what troublesome aspects can teach me. So, I choose happy. Even when I’m not feeling it, and I make the choice to “fake it until I make it.”
This message is an excerpt of “Settling toward happiness” by Karris Golden in the April 2012 issue of Cafe magazine. Today is Tuesday in Holy Week. The readings are Isaiah 49:1-7; Psalm 71:1-14; 1 Corinthians 1:18-31; John 12:20-36.
Sign up for Daily Grace. If you enjoy this resource or our other free resources, please Donate Now.