A busy work day. A poor night’s sleep. Back pain. An unexpected bill. A kid’s sick. The roof is leaking. The car needs an unexpected repair. That’s life. The unexpected comes, and with it the feelings of anxiety and overwhelming uncertainty. With all of these unexpected “gifts” life often brings, there is one thing life can take away: our happiness and joy.
Does that happen to you? I’d be lying to say I’m a ‘happy-go-lucky’ guy. When negative circumstances happen, it’s hard for me to count my blessings and stay positive. Fortunately, my faith is carrying me through both the good and bad times of life. And regardless of my circumstances, I’m able to keep any unexpected negative turns from taking my happiness and joy.
The attached picture really summarizes how blessed I am. In the photo, my family and I were taking our dog, Scout, for a walk on a recent Saturday morning and we were just having fun and enjoying spending time together. As I took the picture, I remember feeling so thankful, and just very happy. But what was the big deal? A morning walk with the family is a ‘little thing’, right? Correct, but let these ‘little things’ point you to the real blessings. My wife is so beautiful, smart and sweet. My son is so compassionate, gifted and kind. My daughter is so pretty, ornery but sweet (and dramatic!). My dog is so…fluffy? We are not perfect (despite what social media portrays!), but blessed we are.
In the Book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon offers a lot of good advice for us regarding daily life, including that we should enjoy the ‘little things’. Don’t ever let life’s unexpected circumstances steal your joy and happiness. Take time each day to enjoy the ‘little things’ in your life, and thank God for these blessings.
“I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their work – this is the gift of God.” Eccl 3:12-13 (NIV)
