What brings a smile to your face? What totally makes your day? Does it have to be something huge? Or, is it the little things in life that turn that frown upside down?
For me, I used to think it was the bigger things that mattered. I thought things like financial status, the home I lived in, the car I drove, having perfect children with perfect manners, my level of education, my career, among many other things, were what was supposed to make me happy. I’m not saying some of these things don’t matter in our lives; I mean, things are less stressful if we can pay our bills and still have money to live on, right?! I have enjoyed the little things throughout my life, but, not to the extent that I do now. I’m not sure if it’s aging, going through two marriages and two divorces, going from a stay-at-home mom to working outside the home, or a combination of these things, but, I do know, that I appreciate things so much more today than I ever used to. I also know that, most importantly, my relationship with God has grown so much and has made me realize what is truly important.
With that being said, I can’t help but enjoy the little things every single day. I love waking up in the morning and looking out the window, rain or shine. I love my huge bed and my twinkle lights across my headboard. I love sleeping with the windows open and hearing all the sounds of the night (or day, since I work nights). I love my shower. I love sipping my coffee every morning and reading my devotions/Bible every day. I love when my sister tells me that she feels so good that her insides are smiling. I love how much my dad loves my mom and vice versa. I love how my youngest daughter tells me to have a great night at work, to be careful, and to exercise if I have time. I also love how she assures me things are going to work out fine when I stress over something. I love walking and finding the most unusual things to photograph. I love when my nonverbal patient looks directly into my eyes and gives me the biggest smile. I could go on and on, honestly.
What are your little things? What makes you smile? And, I mean, what makes you really smile deep down in your soul? If you don’t know, I encourage you to find out. I promise you won’t regret it.
“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” ~ Psalm 118:24