What I'm learning...

I'm learning a lot...

A lot about muscle, connective, epithelial, and nervous tissue.

A lot about assessing a scene and establishing an airway.

A lot about selling chicken and spinning a milkshake.

And a lot about how having a good attitude makes everything better.

My life is crazy busy. I run from one thing to the next. If it weren't for the fact that softball season took a week off, I wouldn't be sitting here now typing this blog. My mornings are work or school; my evenings are studying, softball, youth....or more work.

For the first couple of weeks of this new life, I was probably one of the worst people to be around. I was grumpy and tired and just plain ticked. But I found a new attitude.

My life is crazy, but it's my life. It's the only one I have. And I'm really enjoying it. I've made new friends at work, I'm leading a high school small group of precious young people, and I'm learning about information that really interests me. I'm learning about a subject that I've longed to know most of my life.

It doesn't hurt that I got pulled over for speeding this morning while in my uniform, and after seeing it, the cop asked if everything was okay, asked where I was hoping to get a job, glanced at my license, told me "Nice picture," and sent me on my way. haha

Chase the life you really want. Don't settle for what you have because it's easy.

Happiness vs. Joy

There is a difference between joy and happiness. Happiness occurs when good events transpire in your life and a smile and laughter grace your face. Joy is more deepseated. Joy comes from deep down; it's the gladness in the midst of the mourning. Joy is optimism when everything looks impossible. Joy is Christ's love bubbling up in our spirit. Joy is one of the fruit's of the spirit that you (and I) should strive to have on a daily basis.

Lately, I haven't felt a lot of joy. In the moment, I'm happy. When Eli's wanting to play, I'm smiling. When my family is gathered around and singing happy birthday, I'm laughing and having a great time. But it's the quiet moments...when I'm driving alone, laying in bed at night, or running errands that I don't feel that joy. Lately, all I've felt is overwhelmed and frustrated...by school, work, finances, responsibilities. And I think I've lost that joy.

Tonight, I was driving home from my grandparents'. I had a fantastic weekend. I spent quality time with my family, got a pedicure, saw a movie, celebrated my birthday. And yet, all I felt was anxiety.

My spirit was checked. Why do I not feel joy? Where is my normal, everyday optimism? Truth be told, I've let it slide. I've felt sorry for myself a little too much and not thanked God for the blessings in my life quite enough.

So, I went digging for a scripture that would fit and challenge me. I found Psalm 51:12. "Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me." I need that joy of my salvation in Jesus. And I need a willing spirit to be joyful!

This week, despite what frustrations I may face, I will be thankful for what I have and remember the joy of my salvation. :)