Enjoying Your Happy Hour!
A famous contemporary author I know, once suggested that people should take a “joy break” as they usually enjoy a “coffee break.” This is indeed an excellent idea! Many persons tend to bemoan their fate in life and spend most of their hours in laments, instead of positively refocusing, and advancing in the right direction, as they should, while recognizing the good which life also dispenses.
No doubt, each day brings a good dose of joy but also a measure of disappointment and sadness. Yet, even the distresses which life inflicts at frequent intervals, should never rob you of legitimate happiness. Amid any trials, you can still choose to be happy and transcend the problem being confronted!
Troubles are momentary, while joys are constant, and can co-exist with varied problems, usually making them easier to face and carry. They provide light and guidance in the midst of darkness, and helpful incentives in the presence of obstacles!
Every person should plan a daily “happy hour,” not at a Bar with intoxicating drinks, but often in the solitude one creates for one’s self, away from the noises society inflicts on us. Those are the moments to reflect on the good things which happened that day; taking inventory of new, pleasant surprises,and acknowledging other unexpected experiences which were positive; recognizing also the value of whatever else is customary in daily life, both good and bad!
It is only when one pauses to ponder on meaningful possibilities that one will truly attract them. Otherwise, they shall pass unnoticed, making little, if any, impact in one’s life. That’s why the apostle Paul in his letter to the Philippians offered a model to be followed by anyone, anytime, anywhere, regardless of circumstances. He wrote: “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whetever things are noble, whatever things are just, whetever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things” (4:8).
To the extent one holds on too tightly to negative experiences, the more will one be enslaved by them. They color one’s thinking; they give shape to one’s other endeavors!
Best-selling author, Laurie Beth Jones, confessed in one of her books: “When I am stressed it is nearly always because I am dealing with the ‘what if’s’ of the future or the ‘if only’s’ of the past.” But it need not be so with you as long as you cultivate joy and make it a permanent feature of your life, casting all your cares upon God!
Plan your happy hour each new day. Some may be for solitary consumption, while others may include persons dear to you, who can share your insights or offer you new, meaningful perspectives to carry you ever forward! There are joys that come and go, but there are also joys that come to stay. As a contemporary thinker wisely put it: “The more joyful we are, the more attractive we become.” Be sure this represents your posture accurately!
