May the Sun Shine on You Today!

{You are my sunshine}

It always amazes me how something as simple as a smiling face, a hug from my son, a text from my teenager, a note in the mail, or seeing a friend can brighten up my day. I also know that my happiness is my own responsibility, that I’ll just have to be happy, no matter what. I have two tips for how to be truly happy, no matter what our circumstances...
Yes, I sure do! First off, spend a little time alone each morning before your day gets underway. It is so much easier to keep our spirits up if we can listen to our heart. Even if all you can manage is a minute of meditation and a two minute prayer in the morning, it can work wonders if done with the right spirit. The act of writing my thoughts has been almost magical in drawing me closer to being able to listen to how I am really feeling. I know it is not easy to find the time to do this, especially with young children. There is power in simply asking for help when your heart is soft and open. I am not a diligent student of the scriptures, and I regret that I wasn’t a better example to my children. However, I am often joyfully reminded that God is merciful. He continues to offer me various opportunities to share my testimony with my children. I just have to keep on the look-out for them.

My second tip would be to have (or develop) a grateful heart! Continually focus on the good in your life—from the beauties of the earth, to the comforts of life you enjoy, to the goodness of people you interact with, to the little serendipitous things that happen as you go about your day—and give thanks for each of them. Many of us miss the power of gratitude because we have difficulties that consume our attention. We have to discipline our minds and constantly refocus our eyes (and our hearts) on life and it's goodness. I know we all have trials, but try to rejoice! The weight of our burdens is lifted as we rejoice in the certainty of the things happening for us, not to us. This certainty is developed through writing, together with earnest, joyful prayer.

Live, learn & love.