There Are No Ordinary People...

I have recently come across a quote that is life changing for me.
The more I read the thoughts of C.S. Lewis, the more I am anxious to meet him on the other side.

The following quote succinctly describes the proper respect we should have for ALL of God's children:

“It is a serious thing to live in a society of possible gods and goddesses, to remember that the dullest most uninteresting person you talk to may one day be a creature which, if you saw it now, you would be strongly tempted to worship, or else a horror and a corruption such as you now meet, if at all, only in a nightmare. All day long we are, in some degree helping each other to one or the other of these destinations. It is in the light of these overwhelming possibilities, it is with the awe and the circumspection proper to them, that we should conduct all of our dealings with one another, all friendships, all loves, all play, all politics.

“There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal. Nations, cultures, arts, civilizations - These are mortal, and their life is to ours as the life of a gnat. But it is immortals that we joke with, work with, marry, snub, and exploit - immortal horrors or everlasting splendors.” – C.S. Lewis

It truly is a "serious thing" when we imagine every person around us has such possibility for greatness or horror. Further, the thought that every moment of every day... every interaction... we have a responsibility to help each other to the desirable destination.

Additionally, as we ponder those relationships... friendships, loves, play, politics... they become more meaningful. There is purpose, responsibility, and expected outcome.

Then, the idea that "there are no ordinary people"... this rings true as a core principle. Taking that thought further to see every soul around us as immortal beings. "Of course this is true" we tell ourselves. We know this is true. But, do we think of this as we go about our daily activities interacting with each other? Usually not.

The phrase that stings is this... that we joke with immortal beings... we work with immortal beings... we marry immortal beings... we snub immortal beings... and we exploit immortal beings. This causes honest introspection. Our actions condemn us. Our thoughts and words do not live up to our responsibility.

The result of such self-assessment returns within my heart an increased desire to remember who it is I am talking to... who it is I am looking at... and who it is I am serving.

In truth, we know that when we are in the service of our fellow beings, we are only in the service of our God. This is because He places such high esteem on His children... so should we all. This re-alignment with truth is invigorating yet infuses the soul with peace.

Happiness is a Choice

Sometimes it's hard, but whenever I think of the amazing blessings of my Lord, then it doesn't matter how lonely or overwhelmed I feel... my heart fills with gladness and gratitude.

... and I feel happy...

I look at my sweetheart and think of the love we feel for each other...

... and I feel happy...

Whenever I see someone else whose struggles are more difficult than mine...
I feel compassion for them and gratitude that I don't have to endure their trials...

... and I feel happy...

I look at the mountains, flowers, sunsets, sunrises, clouds, changing leaves, wildlife, butterflies, birds, rabbits, kittens, puppies, or little children...

... and I feel happy...

Sometimes I see smiles on the backs of cars in front of me... It makes me giggle... it makes me smile...

... and I feel happy...

Whenever I hear a baby giggle, take its first steps, smile, or cuddle in my arms... I smile to myself...

... and I feel happy...

When I hear sweet voices shout, "Grandma Lynn!" and feel arms wrap around my knees... my heart swells with love...

... and I feel happy...

I choose to be happy....