Happiness, Just A Thought

Happiness.  I have been contemplating that word a lot lately.  We tend to associate happiness with people or places but doesn't it really have to start from within?  How can you be happy with others if you do not like yourself?  How can you make others happy if that happiness didn't first come from somewhere deep inside of you?  As for things, they are fleeting so any happiness caused is temporary.   Recently, someone close to me said I seem to be more on edge lately. He was right, I have been. I have become so worried with trying to see everyone else was happy that it began to weigh on my own happiness.  I love where I am in my life.  It sounds silly, but I am happy spending a Monday night laying on the couch watching wrestling with Billy.  I may grumble from time to time, but I find myself smiling as I wash the dishes.  I have found a joy and peace in keeping the house causes a smile to cross my face. I am enjoying this time in my life, right now right here.  Perhaps instead of worrying about if someone else is happy I should allow my happiness to radiate outward and let it act as a reassurance that things are going to be alright.  It took me a long time to get to this place in my life.  It hasn't been a perfect journey, but God has blessed every step of the way on this journey I have taken.  I should wear this smile proudly as a reflection of what God has done and is doing in me.  I want all my family and friends to have the peace in their lives that produces the genuine happiness that is rooted in your very being, but I can't force that happiness on them.  Sadly, some people are satisfied in turmoil, others enjoy drama.  I'll love you, I'll be here for you, I'll pray for you, but I won't let worry hinder my smile.  God is good and my smile should be a light drawing others in.  Be blessed.

~ Chelle
    12/8/13