Today!

Most of us probably wish that life was always full of smiles and soft landings, but it isn’t and if it was we wouldn’t appreciate the good times anyway. If all we knew was joy then eventually the joy would not be enough and a less joyful day would feel like a hard day (which in our country of comfort and affluence may actually be where some of us are).
The fact is life is a series of ups and downs for most of us, of highs and lows, we often disappoint ourselves or are embarrassed by ourselves. Frankly, the sooner we accept and realize that fact the happier we will be. There is no prince in shining armor coming to rescue you, there’s not a rich long lost uncle, you’re not going to win the publishers clearing house sweepstake (even Ed McManhon lost his house), the miracle cure for death will never be found (except that it already has been, it’s called “new life”). We all have biorhythms - times of up and down. Most of us have to pray, and study and struggle ourselves out of the occasional depression or on set of the same. We have to control our thoughts - the scriptures teach us to do this time and again (Philippians 4, Proverbs 23:7).
For me, a lot of it is in my control: the fountain of youth won’t be found in fatty foods, proper mental health will not come from a steady diet of TV, joy isn’t packaged in listening to constant streams of critical thinking and criticisms, contentment isn’t found in making a want list or a have list (it isn’t in things).
Happily ever after is a fairy tale for those of us who live in reality we know it comes from forcing our faith toward God and striving to be the best we can be in the roles we are given (husband/wife/parent/friend/worker/Brother/Sister/Christian).
So go out today, stop waiting for that event or person to bring you joy...live the life! The Lord is good, enjoy His goodness this day!