Sometimes All It Takes...

When I have had a crappy day, been dealt a disappointment, or am just feeling like my emotions are all over the place, sometimes all it takes is a long walk, a good cry, a giant hug, and perfect words of encouragement to remind me that everything will be okay.

I was talking to Dan last night on our walk about how much we can learn from our giant puppy, Gus. He is incredibly content and joyful every single day. Even after being home alone for 8+ hours, when he should be irritable and mad at us, he greets us with the biggest licks and wagging tail. He does not get upset at the fact that he can't play and eat all day long, as he wishes to do. He will lay right beside me even after I ignore him to worry about the dishes, or laundry, or paperwork...He is loyal and content, no matter what.

The smallest little joys in life make him the happiest. A good scratch. A long walk. And of course, a small bone. As Dan and I were talking about this lesson we can learn from our pet, I was trying ever so hard to figure out whether or not I truly could make myself have a similar outlook on life as our furry friend.

I come to find out...

It is a LOT harder said then done. And I actually have a lot to learn from Gus.

I often allow disappointments, worry, and stress to rob me from experiencing joy daily. I forget to stop thinking about and planning out my future and take the time to enjoy the precious moments I have with the ones I love today. I forget to stop worrying about my reality, and give out love to those around me. Like Christ did...even with his own impending death on a cross.

If there is something I have been learning recently it is this simple truth: enjoy today.

Whether that means finding joy in the way one of my clients runs to greet me every Tuesday morning...
Or how my husband always graciously gives me the best back massages...even when he is just as exhausted as I am at the end of the day....
Or the new natural coffee creamer and cheddar popcorn that I get to indulge in...
Or that small gift card to Starbucks that my boss blessed me with...
Or the fact that I have a roof over my head, clothes to wear, and a fridge stocked with food and drinks...
Or how I have more then $100 in my bank account... a reality that is not as common as one would think...
Or giving my time and energy to those who may not have had someone ask them how they are doing this week...and seeing that smile on their face when I act silly, pay them a compliment, or reward their good efforts with some water balloons.

And I will end with a quote from one of my dearest friends:

"When you stop trying to control and start trusting God to do what’s best for you, 

you can enjoy a life that’s better than any you could ever come up with on your own."