Merry Hearts

Well, it's been quite a week for everyone. What a blessing it is to have friends and family to bear the burdens we face. It's so helpful to know that we have people walking beside and praying for us. It's also helpful to remember that everything is a matter of perspective. Sometimes we cannot see a positive side of bad news or the hard times, but as Kim pointed out with her comments yesterday, sometimes bad situations motivate us to remember what's important.

I found myself thinking about that today. What important things might I be forgetting or missing as I focus on the negative aspects of life? It's always so easy to see the bad and forget the good. We have a tendency to remember the harsh word spoken by our friend or spouse, but forget all the positive, loving comments and actions. Sometimes we can recall stressful times more readily than restful moments.

My challenge today--for myself as well as you--is to focus on the positive. Make it a game with the family--call up a friend--write a letter to someone. Share memories and thoughts of something that is good. Offer a word of encouragement. Tell a joke. Thank someone for something they did. Enjoy the moment. You'll be amazed at how much better you'll feel afterwards, and you'll make someone else feel better at the same time. The Bible says, "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine." Go take a generous dose.
Tracie