Happiness is a choice. Like picking fruit. You reach up to find the choicest piece, twist it from its stem, and make it yours. Pick as much as you like, to eat or giveaway. But it won’t be yours if you only look without getting involved in the selection process.
This is my view outside on a stormy morning, not what I wanted to see. I’m ready for spring, but it’s the end of March in Minnesota. One doctor son reminds me that we had 22” of snow one April. How did I forget? That might have been a choice, too.
I’m tucked in at our comfortable small farm an hour north of the Twin Cities because some in the family are exposed and my sons want me safe. One son brings me too many groceries once a week. Including my favorite coffee. So why am I tempted to complain? I’m a people person. Many of us are. No TV. At first this morning, the radio didn’t work. Frightening. Thankfully, my computer and iPhone connect me to the world.
From doing small tasks on the farm as weather permits, I’ve seen small encouraging signs of spring that are under a snowy mantle now. I hear returning birds—some that wintered further south like I did and are just arriving here. I distinguish the calls of brightly-colored China pheasants from returning Sandhill cranes and give them warm welcome. I hear the steady clip clop of horses hooves as they pull my Amish neighbors’ buggy down the lane.
I love online church, prayer teams, and strangers reaching out to cheer and encourage. Some offer to give food—even the riches of free toilet paper.
Happiness is a choice. Like picking fruit. I’ll do what I can to help others. Even from a distance. Meanwhile, I’m thinking of and praying for those serving on the front lines, like my two doctor sons. Dedication is also a choice. Thank you for making yours. We appreciate and are praying for you. I’m keeping those I know (and those I don’t) in my prayers—and practicing thanks.
Question—Please share how you are making these days meaningful?
What blessings are you finding despite hardships?
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