Contemplating Joy

I really have no intentions for this post--meaning that I really don't know what I want to write about today, but I know I want to write.

If I looked at myself today, and had to tell you how my life is right now I would use the words joyful and contemplacious (even though that's not necessarily a word =) )

I first say joyful because I look at where I am in life, and I am so happy that it is joy. I definitely think that happiness and joy are distinctly different. I think of happiness as short-term, meaning that things, people, circumstances can make you happy, but it's short-lived. Joy, however, is more long-term, and more of a sense of living. The values and morals I have established for myself make me so joyful because I am independently putting the pieces of my beliefs together. These last few months I have really been taking a step back and looking at each situation I am presented with. There are times that I could potentially be very frustrated, disappointed, angry, or sad. However, most of the time I look at the big picture, and really see every opportunity as a blessing--even if it's difficult. This definitely did not come easy because OF COURSE it's hard to be patient, and be slow to be angered, but I have really worked on being in tune with God, and understanding that NOTHING is in my control, it is all Him and His timing. I feel bad for people who can never seem to see the bright side of things, because how will they ever enjoy their time, their days, their lives? I have had a lot of little factors in my life that could potentially be very stressful, and/or disappointing, but I look at those situations and try to see what God is teaching me. It helps me connect with God, and be realistic in realizing that life isn't everything we expect it to be sometimes. These realizations, in combination with the lovely friendships that God has formed though me make me overflowing with joy and L-O-V-E.

The second "word" I used was contemplacious. What I mean by this is that everything I experience from day to day makes me think. I love contemplating why things happen the way they do and examining relationships with people. It's so wonderful--I love this stage of life!

Lastly, I just wanted to suggest a few songs because music is such a great form of expression!
1. Beautiful, Beautiful by Francesca Battistelli. Francesca is a Christian artist, and all of her music is great in my opinion. I really like this song in particular because she sings about how God is making her life something that is beautiful. Check it out if you wish.
2. The second song is one of my favorite songs of all time. If you are reading this, you MUST go look it up and listen to it (and I mean REALLY listen to the lyrics!) It's called "Count on Me" by Default. It describes how I want to be there for each of you as my friends, and the song ROCKS!

I have SO much LOVE for all of you. Thanks for helping to make my life something beautiful that brings me SO much Joy.

Kayla <3 Love

Erik

God took a beautiful man today. I am sad to say that I didn't know this man the way that I wanted to, but in the ways I did know him, he was quite amazing. He carried joy in his eyes, and in his heart, although I'm sure he was always in pain while doing so. He leaves behind a beautiful family, all of whom had more love for him than they knew what to do with. It gives me a little relief to know that he no longer must suffer in sickness, but instead he may rejoice in the Lord's glory for eternity. However, death is a painful experience when we realize our own personal loss. I have no doubt that God will make this man into a beautiful, strong angel who will protect his entire family--especially his growing son. I just pray that his family may feel his presence, hold tight to his memory, and be wrapped up in his, and God's L-O-V-E every day.

May God bless the family of Erik Wallin.

Kayla <3 Love