I’m spoiled. I know it. No one has to tell me. And I don’t mean spoiled in the sense of no good for anyone anymore. Nor do I mean spoiled, i.e. ungrateful. I am spoiled in the sense of blessed, and yet I still have whining moments (of which I’m not proud). I have been given much. I am thankful for it all. And yet… stuff doesn’t mean happiness.
I find myself in moments still whining, still complaining, still feeling like I wish things were different. And it is in these moments I feel convicted, embarrassed, foolish. What is wrong with me?! Why, when I’ve been given so much goodness, am I such an ungrateful child? Do I need more? Do I require the world to bow before me and serve me in every way?! (I might enjoy that, smile.) Then do I still feel sad or disconnected or lacking? (I can write this because I know I’m loved even during my bad attitude.)
What will it take, Sweetheart? What will it take for you to feel happy, at peace, living full?
What is it you yet need?
I could make a list.
The reality is…a thankful heart will shift it all. This is what science says, what the Bible says, what a counselor or a coach says. I know this because I am one. This is what I say to my clients. Find the good, embrace the present. Live in the moment. See what you can see. Enjoy the little things. Choose happiness.
I agree with all these things. If I were sitting in front of myself, coaching myself, what would I say? I would ask, how are you and Jesus? Are you connecting with Him? I would give myself space to ‘vomit’ out all the reasons I’m not happy.
And then…the first step would be given. Of course, all of the above: find the good, be thankful, be present, etc. BUT ultimately, the ‘answers’ are always found in the same place.
“Come away with me, My love, my fair one, rise up and come away. Winter is past; the rain is over and gone… Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away.” (Song of Solomon 2:10-16)
He knows love changes everything. His love – poured all over you – and you being ‘away’ from it all (which can mean just hiding in a closet), able to receive. His love, you being loved, changes it all. The heart's posture, the mind’s thoughts. You, loved You, changes every single thing. When you are loved, and feel loved, it will indeed make you happy and peaceful, giving you the ability to BE who you have been made to be.
Happiness comes in being loved.
I know this is true from experience AND from the Promises He gave. I am loved, so if you’ll excuse me, I need to go… I need to ‘come away’. I need to go be loved on.