5 Simple Ways to Have a Better Day

Life has been difficult the last few years. Not difficult in the sense that I've lost my home or I have to scrounge for food to eat or that I've gone through a divorce. Quite frankly, I always feel that if I can turn on a faucet and fresh water comes out, I'm the most blessed person on the earth. But, I've gone through several changes in my life over the last few years, not the least of which was a change in my health. I have pain. Every day. Sometimes debilitating. And for this self-professed athlete, it has been very difficult.

I am a Christian. I love God. I read my Bible and go to church. I know that God won't let me go through this without wanting to be with me, wrap me in His arms and comfort me, and allow me to encourage others.

But, even with all of that, pain sucks. It is all I can do sometimes to not curl up, cry, and just let everything go.

However, there is a purpose in this. I don't always know what that is, but today I know that I can sympathize, understand, and cry with those who are going through similar circumstances.

So, as I've been dealing with the pain and all of the discouragement it can bring, I thought I'd share with you some simple things that help me. None of them are earth shattering or brilliant. They're just some things that have helped me to cope.

1. Acknowledge the things which are out of your control and do something about the things that ARE in your control. We often stress about things that are unchangeable. Find a solution to a problem about which you CAN do something, tackle it, and accomplish it.
2. Be thankful. You know that saying that is all over Pinterest? "There is always, always, always something to be thankful for" (or to be grammatically correct, something for which to be thankful). Well, there is. Always. Running water, a toilet, a smile, a sunny day, a snowy day, a rainy day, a hot day, a cold day. Get it? Find something that is good in your life and LOVE it.
3. Forgive yourself...and others. Remember that really stupid thing you said or did last week? Perhaps you need to apologize, but you definitely need to forgive yourself. We all make mistakes. Sometimes they're really big, and sometimes they're really small. But we all do it. And, have some forbearance for those who've done something stupid to you.
4. Find beauty in your day. Today, here in Lancaster County, PA, the corn fields are becoming lush. I'm SO happy for the farmers that the season has been conducive to good crops. It's a beautiful, sunny day. My husband's flowers are beautiful. I have a coffee table that I restored and I love it. My puppy is really cute. It's a good hair day. Get it?
5. Write a thank you note. This accomplishes several purposes. It makes you thankful, which makes your day better. And, it shows someone else that you're thankful, which makes their day better. And, it takes the focus off of your problems and allows you to think of others.

And yes, today I have pain.

So, I know this wasn't necessarily a brilliant post, but I hope it makes your day a little bit better. Now, get to work.

Fondly, Tami