I’ve had more doctor appointments than usual, lately, because of the episode with my eye. So, I’ve tried to “lighten” things up by finding bits of humor. I recommend this for any heart that is heavy with the burdens of chronic illness. No doubt about it, laughter or even a simple smile at something humorous can truly lift the spirits and make it easier to cope with what chronic illness and pain throw at us.

So, on one particular day, I was passing by a restaurant called “Nirvana.” And in front of the restaurant was a sign that said, “Happy Hour 4:30-6:30 PM Daily.”  This struck me as very funny – and poignant, too.

There was a whole restaurant going by a name reflecting ultimate happiness or realization – and its “Happy Hour” was limited to 2 hours!

Don’t we do this, too?

We dedicate our lives to Christ, to praising and loving our Lord wholeheartedly. But sometimes, we limit our uplifting moments to a finite period of time: private prayer minutes, specific church services, windows of time when we are having a “good” day. Our Christmas Joy might only be consciously upon our lips and in our hearts from December 1 through the 25. Our Easter wonder might be similarly limited.

Happiness runs deeply in the souls of believers. And, yes, it is true that there are times when we are sorrow-filled, frustrated, and weary. But that happiness, and along with it the love the Lord has for us, cannot be confined to specific spaces and times. It’s waiting to bubble up and over any tears we shed or cries we utter – if we let it.

Happiness in a box? Not unless it’s wrapped up with a pretty ribbon and destined to be spilled open and spread around – like a good, humorous moment shared or a song sung for all.

Amazing what you can discover on the way to the doctor’s office!

Blessings for the day,
Maureen