Friday, April 2, 2010

I choose Joy!

This is a 2 part post, so bear with me!

1.  At work I have to take a shuttle in because the parking situation is not ideal near the University of Arizona.  As I was getting onto the shuttle yesterday, the driver (who happens to be my favorite) commented to another passenger how I am always smiling.  I quickly thanked him, and commented on the fact that I don't have a very attractive angry face, so I don't want to scare everyone away even if I'm in a bad mood.

But that comment got me thinking.  Over the years, I have learned that a smile can greatly improve not only my mood, but those around me.  It is a conscious choice I make to plaster that smile on my face, because even if I'm not feeling the smiley-ness inside at first, it will quickly spread to those around me and in turn affect my attitude in a positive way.  I want to be a person that can be referred to as "always smiling," because I want to show that I feel joyful even if a situation may be less than ideal (like the partially awake state that is the beginning of every morning).   An old college friend of mine used to say, "Happiness is a choice."  And it truly is, as is Joy.

On most days, I don't feel that I have much to offer, but if I can bring a smile to another person's face, joy to their heart, and show the love of Christ through it all, than I have offered much more than I can ever hope for.

So I choose Joy!  What about you?

2.  When I saw the post title, I instantly thought of my soon to be born niece, Hannah Joy!  Her sweet mama Melissa, has had quite the pregnancy and will finally be able to get off bed rest.  Prayers were definitely answered, and as of tomorrow she will be carrying a term baby!  We can't wait to meet you Miss Hannah Joy!  Will you all just take a moment to pray for Melissa, Aaron, and their precious baby!  Pray for a safe delivery and healthy Mommy, Baby, and Daddy (and that Daddy doesn't pass out!).

I hope you all have a blessed weekend!

7 comments:

katie said...

Praying for the baby! And her Mama and Daddy!

And you and your smile are always encouraging!

Melissa said...

You are so sweet! Thanks for your prayers and support. I just know Baby Joy will love her Aunt Kelley and Uncle Rhett.

P.S. I have threatened Aaron with serious anger if he does pass out :)

Aaron Wagner said...

I have a history of getting "light headed" in hospital environments. PLEASE DO pray for me while in the delivery room... I know this is gonna be one of those situations that I HAVE to be strong.

Also, Kelley, I have to tell you that I was walking across campus at Tech one day, having a rather crappy day, feeling sorry for myself. I walked past this girl that had the biggest smile on her face. It struck me that she was not on the phone, texting or walking with friends. She was just happy. She didn't have any external source that was causing her to smile, she just was internally happy. Totally changed my day. Keep it up because you may be effecting more people that you even know... maybe even some guy you just walk past.

LWLH said...

Smiles are contagious, how can you be mad when someone is smiling! :)

Prayers to Melissa, the baby, and the Daddy who might possibly pass out.

Marmie said...

I have to tell you that my dad always told me to smile---you're pretty when you smile--This post brought that memory back and I thank you for this and your always smiling face. As for the father of our own little "Joy". Buck up little buckaroo!

Unknown said...

My sweet Kelley -- You make your mamma proud.

Anonymous said...

Congrats on being an Aunt! I will prayer that your little niece has a very safe entry into this world xoxo!