The Path To Lasting Joy

Jan 21, 2013, Written by Sue Miley

It is always better to try to see the positives in life….in the big things, as well as the everyday.

I understand the feeling that your suffering is diminished when not given the freedom to embrace the discomfort or to share your suffering with others.  I also know it is cathartic at times to be able to release your unhappiness and stress to others.  To somehow feel connected to a tribe of people who may be able to understand what it feels like to be you in the moment.

I do understand this.

I at times fall prey to it myself.  And, many times share the unhappiness that crosses my doorstep with God, for His comfort and mercy.

However, because I know that joy is better than sorrow, and peace is better than chaos, I share with you that looking for the blessings in the curses of life, minimizing the negative, shrugging off the failure, and being thankful for the presence of God is still the best path.

I believe that this requires more than mere compartmentalization of your thoughts and feelings.  I am not suggesting you repress your angst.  Nor am I suggesting in any way to just stuff it.

I actually believe a change of heart, a shift in paradigm, and a deep understanding of grace is what is necessary.  To truly see the cup is half full, not just tell yourself so.

It is by practicing optimism and extracting the grace that leads to a better life.

I am not sure we are supposed to just have a better life.  I believe we are supposed to aim for a purposeful life and in God’s view it is through glorifying Him and enjoying Him forever.

If you think about this edict from God, it explains how we can ignore the plagues and the plights in life.  The rationale being that if we focus on Him, and He is all good, we can find the grace and mercy in every situation.

To see the positives in life, even in the struggles.

This may not be hard for you all of the time, but maybe a time or two.  And that is why I am sharing this thought.  In my desire to love you, I want you to see the trials of this life as a distant backdrop, while illuminating the flecks of gold that can be found in every situation.

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Sue Miley

Sue Miley MBA, MA, LPC helps small business owners build successful businesses on a foundation of Christian values. After 20 years in business, and 10 years as a Christian counselor, Sue uses a combination of faith, business and psychology to help clients in business and in life.

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