7 Positive Results of Change

“To change one’s life, start immediately. Do it flamboyantly.” -William James

Last week we began our month’s theme a little early, “7 Positive Results of Change” with Positive Result #1- Change Overcomes the Past. Check our last week’s blog to catch up at www.yourrefreshedlife.com.

This week we’re looking at Positive Result #2- Change Enables Happiness

My friend, fellow author, and social anthropologist Alexandra Prevost and her husband, David, spent several nights with us recently. We discussed world events and the search for happiness and Your Refreshed Life in the midst of current affairs.

She shared a fascinating insight which I later found to be a quote by Tom Bodett, “They say a person needs just three of these things to be truly happy in this world:

1. Someone to love
2. Something to do
3. Something to hope for

I considered this for a moment and realized… change can bring about the fulfillment of all three of things at any and every moment in our life… if we are willing to embrace it.

Think about it. Whether you are professionally employed or not, there is always something to do. Whether gardening, watercolor painting, or preparing a meal for a friend recovering from surgery, life constantly provides the opportunity to accomplish meaningful work… if you choose to find it.

As far as someone to love, even if children left home, you’ve lost your spouse, or you are single, you never have to be alone. The world is full of people seeking to be loved. Whether the family in a homeless shelter, your new neighbor, or the “shut-in” from your church, there is always someone who needs your love and care. You need to share your love with someone around you…if you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone.

And something to hope for or look forward to…well, that’s an easy one. What brings you joy? Visiting the quaint little town in your area you’ve never found time to explore? Calling a friend from high school you’ve see on Instagram? Attending a class on glass blowing or international cooking at the area college? These moments await you…if you’re willing to schedule them.

God offers us real joy every day. David writes in the Psalms, “Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 37:4) What are your heart desires? As your creator, God knows exactly what you need to be happy. And since happiness is fleeting, He offers a permanent joy found only by developing a relationship with Him. As you experience the happiness that is yours through changes you make, find these moments sustained in life-fulfilling joy found only in God.

So this week, do you really want to be happy? Set a specific time aside. Make an appointment on your calendar. Choose to seize the moment, experience a brighter tomorrow, and discover the only truly joy-filled life possible, found in a relationship with your Creator God, Jesus Christ…Your Refreshed Life.