Let’s get excited about life

I have discovered two ways to live: I can let life happen to me or I can happen to life.

Allowing life to happen is not very exciting to me. In fact, it could be dull. The same routines and rituals do not require much enthusiasm or energy for me.

A big world is out there just waiting to be found. Life can be a wondrous trip, and happening to life is the way I want to go.

Since the present economic troubles, many have found ways to economize and have fun doing it. They have discovered coupons, garage sales and bargains. Some have even started small businesses with different ways to not only help themselves but to help others.

In that regard, they have happened to life. 1 John 4:4 excites me: “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”

Americans are strong faith-filled people you can’t stop because they are creative and courageous. They keep on keeping on. They find ways to overcome with persistence. You will not find life just happening to them; they happen to life.

Hope in the Lord renews strength. “They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isaiah 40:31 NIV).

I believe these individuals stand out in the crowd. You don’t see them groaning and moaning. They do not see what they might have lost but look for what they can renew and start over. They also bless others who are in need.

Keep being positive and keep your eyes on God’s entire plan. “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV).

I know a couple who lost their retirement investment. Instead of giving up they “picked up.” The wife was a great candy maker. They started selling candy from their house, but their success enabled them to build a candy store. They are even happier now because they “happened to life.”

A friend told me that to happen to life, you must have love, and that love makes life exciting.

“Love isn’t love ‘til you give it away.

Love isn’t love ‘til it comes to stay.

Love isn’t love ‘til you share it.

Love isn’t love ‘til you bear it.

Love is long-suffering, patient and kind.

Love is unselfish and sweet peace of mind.

Love bears things no matter the cost.

Love never gives up on one that is lost.

Love never ends. It’s for always.

Love in eternity will be happy days.

Love never fails. It’s faithful and true.

Love is forever. God’s love is for you!”

The most challenging thing you will ever face in your life is learning every day to be excited about life.

For a blessed life, think big with faith and courage. You will enter a new life of hope. Each day is filled with blessings just waiting to be discovered.

Life is a journey, so let’s “happen to an exciting life.”