I have told you this so that my joy may be in you
and that your joy may be complete
John 15:11

Happiness is basically a choice which is not dependent upon situations or conditions. Each of us is responsible for our own happiness. Happiness can be enhanced by what occurs around us. We are more likely to be happy if we center our activities on others instead of ourselves.

Dr. Archibald Hart, dean and professor of psychology of the Graduate School of Psychology, Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California, suggests writing the following affirmations on cards, keeping them with you, and reading them periodically:

• JUST FOR TODAY
  I will set my affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
   
  
• JUST FOR TODAY
  I will not worry about what will happen tomorrow, but will trust that God will go before me into the unknown.
   
  
• JUST FOR TODAY
  I will endure anything that hurts or depresses me because I believe God controls what happens to me.
   
  
• JUST FOR TODAY
  I will not dwell on my misfortunes. I will replace my negative thoughts with happy and hopeful thoughts.
   
  
• JUST FOR TODAY
  I will choose to do some things I do not like doing, and I will do them cheerfully and with a happy spirit.
   
  
• JUST FOR TODAY
  I will make a conscious effort to love those who don't show love to me and be kind to those who do not appreciate me.
   
  
• JUST FOR TODAY
  I will be patient with those who irritate me and longsuffering toward those who are selfish and inconsiderate.
   
  
• JUST FOR TODAY
  I will forgive all those who hurt me -- even forgiving myself.
   
  
• JUST FOR TODAY
  I will choose to BE HAPPY!

Thank you Heavenly Father for sending the Holy Spirit
to dwell in our hearts and make us happy. Amen

Contributed by Melanie H.
Published Sunday October 30, 2005
Week 49 of Liturgical Year A