Thursday, May 10, 2007

Optimism Is a Virtue

“Nothing but blue skies do I see, from now on.”

Are these not the lyrics of a song Willie Nelson made famous? I am not certain of their original context, but taken as an isolated thought they speak to the mindset people of faith should possess.

Optimism ought to define the Christian spirit. Those who bear the name of Christ, those who have given their life to the One who washes away all that stains, tarnishes, corrupts, and kills, come into a new life that is one of hope and eternity. Christians certainly face trials and adversities, for we remain in a world where the actions and consequences of evil persist, but we are able to look above gray and stormy clouds to beautiful blue skies.

Too many go through life with a gloomy disposition and a depressed mindset. Too many good and faithful people have their eyes and hearts downcast. Years of heartache and trouble have beaten them down. They have been conditioned by society to feel abused and cheated, angered and embittered, discouraged and weakened. Have they forgotten the blue skies?

Do you see the blue skies? At times, they are as clear as can be. At other times, you must train your sight and focus your attention.

Jesus once made an appeal, saying, “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11.28-30).

You know the difference a smile can make. A gloomy day can be turned around and the clouds can be parted by greeting it with a smile. And, the old maxim is so true: “laughter is the best medicine.”

Greet each new day with a smile. Share it with your family, your friends, and with the strangers you meet on the street. The world is made a better place with each laugh that is heard and with each smile that is shared.

Even when your heart is troubled, let Christ bless you with the strength to smile and to laugh.
“Nothing but blue skies do I see, from now on.” I hope you can share in the singing of this song. Of course, absent the bandana and ponytail :-).

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