Cleaning Up
It never fails. Whenever I go to speak to a group of women about joy, something always happens to challenge my joy shortly before the event. Yesterday was no exception.
As I was preparing to leave the house, I discovered a curious substance in my dryer. It appeared to be a melted Hershey kiss – not a great finding as the clothes are removed from the dryer. I didn’t have time to fully investigate and decided that a chuckle was a more appropriate response than aggravation. The reality was I’d have to clean it up. I could be miserable about it or laugh at the timing and the fact that once again something happened on my way to an event.
There was a time when such a thing would have sent me through the roof. I would have been angry, tried to find out who was responsible, and then sulked, grumbled, and fumed as I cleaned it up. As I think about my past responses, I wonder how much happiness I’ve sacrificed in life because I gave it away so easily. Every time I’m quick to respond in anger or frustration, I’m robbing myself of joy. I give up peace and allow emotions and circumstances to rule my thoughts and mood. Although it’s tough to react calmly in certain circumstances, we benefit when we do.
Joy is a fruit of the Spirit so let’s be filled with it to overflowing. When we are, there’s a lot less room for negative thoughts and attitudes. I challenge you to say “No to Negativity” this week and reap a harvest of joy.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23
Cindy – love this post. it was one that i needed to read not just today but every day! i look forward to getting your book and reading about God’s aweseom grace in your life during a difficult time.
Thanks Beth… and prayers that they’ll be no surprises in your dryer today. Blessings to you as you choose joy!