why is it birthdays always bring us into an introspective time of thought and questioning?
how much longer will i be having these birthdays? where did time go? wasn't i just 16 yesterday? am i doing something with my life? am i happy? am i where God wants me?
so many questions, and not all answered, but the questionable bumper sticker of the 80's and 90's got it wrong. "time happens". and there's nothing you can do about it.
so if growing older is inevitable, how do you be happy with the impending mortality and the years that flash by more quickly every 365 days? well in my 26 years of living on this earth, i've found 3 things that keep me happy and content. i don't know if i'd call it wisdom, but it's kept me a happy and contented young man so far.
rule #1) it's out of control!: well, my control that is. if i thought everything bad that happened around me was my fault, or everything that was good was my doing, i'd be one messed up depressed ego-maniac. God knows what he's doing. so why i don't i do my best to live by the example Jesus left, and let God take care of the rest.
rule #32) enjoy the little things.: ever watched your friends carry on a conversation and feel blessed? even though they were talking about stupid stuff, just to know them and be in their company made you happy? i sipped on a mountain dew today after being dry and sober from that fantastic drink for over a month...it was the sweetest nectar to pass these lips ever.
rule #3) know people.: talked with my granddad tonight, who's birthday i was born on. we agreed. it's the people and relationships we make in this life that truly mean the most when it comes to happiness and contentment. God has truly blessed me with some great friends.
peace and love!