Happiness - You choose

 

The Choice Is Yours

Life is not always easy. Most of the time it’s challenging and we struggle on so many levels in the hopes to feel what we perceive as normal. It’s hard to find joy in everything. 

I think the hardest part is it always seems like everyone else is happy. That everyone seems to be living their best life and we are on the struggle bus. Part of that is perception because I think we tend to notice only those who “seem” to be doing better than us and not really seeing those who struggle…but that’s not today’s thought. 

Everyone else seems happy and we are struggling. That perception is an illusion. Everyone is facing challenges. We are not alone when it comes to that. The person with a $1million in the bank I guarantee has their own problems…just different. 

The real key is to choose happiness. I could be upset that my 3 year old doesn’t listen to me all the time (ok that one frustrates me), but I didn’t think I would have a child as I got older, so I focus on the blessing of a child. I could be upset. I'm an “old” dad having kids later, but I have it when I thought that dream was over. 

Happiness isn’t always easy to muster up, but if we really look at it in a lens of simplicity, if you woke up today, you’re kind of lucky. There are a lot of people who probably have it much worse than you. 

I know I need to refocus and reframe my perception all the time. I’ve had hardships, still have many. I have lost people I felt was too soon and I’ve experienced heartbreaking events, but we still should refocus on joy. We mourn with all our might, but find happiness again. 

It's much easier to write it than it is to do it. I know this. For me it comes down to my faith. My trust in God and trying hard to live a God-fearing life. I have decided to put my trust in God and give away my pain, stress and anxiety. It sounds crazy, but it's changed so much for me. 

I still get worked up from time to time. I still get down, but I end up finding a way back up again. I’m going to work hard at choosing to be happy and not letting things get to me. I hope you do too.