Happiness Blooms

Sunflowers represent happiness, the flower blooms in summer and into autumn. I think of the specific season that sunflowers make their presence known and I relate that to what it's like for us as human beings to bloom at the right time in the right season. When we bloom, we are in a state of happiness. We are overjoyed because all of our efforts and challenging seasons have birthed something beautiful.

Not everyone experiences their bloom at the same time and that brings up an interesting thought. Have you ever been around someone who seemed to be sad, angry, or just negative the majority of the time? What about the saying "misery loves company," have you heard of that? Sure, at some point or another, we have encountered people in this state and maybe we have been that person. It is important not to judge another person for the season they may be experiencing. It is important to meet them with grace. When their harsh climate begins to disrupt your own, it's okay to acknowledge that and take a step back. Maybe that means you limit how much you interact with that person or those individuals. Maybe it means that you make a conscious effort to pour into yourself with music, a good book, laughter from a great movie, or a hobby that brings you joy. Once you've got your happiness in full swing provide hope to someone else who lacks hope. Try not to do so arrogantly because we all have our seasons. Just remember that you have blossomed and one day those folks will too! It's easy to become angry when people try to rain on your happiness and you may even resent them for doing so. You must remember that deep down the one who is searching for happiness is hurting. Don't take bitterness personally, stay focused on your season, and again, meet them with grace and humility.

Prayer Father in Heaven, fill my heart with compassion when my happiness is attacked. Help me to remember that many are hurting and I once knew that pain. Remind me not to become full of myself and to honor how far you have brought me. Father forgive me for moments when I judged others who hurt me because I do not know their journey. Heavenly Father I desire to have a heart of joy in every season not only the seasons that feel like a season of bloom. When tough times fall upon me, help me to seek your word and not turn against my brothers or sisters in Christ with anger and misery. Help me continue to spread kindness, love, and happiness from a genuine mindset. All the glory to you! ~ Amen