This Thursday during one of his homilies, Archbishop Hicks of New York said something that jarred me – “It’s okay to be happy.” My pastor had said the something similar to me on Wednesday but in a different context. I had a feeling God wanted me to think about this subject a little more.
I have a hard time discerning God’s voice. Mostly because when I’m praying, I’m doing 100% of the talking and not taking the time to just be quiet and listen. Usually God talks to me through other people, due to my excessive chattiness with Him. My pastor said to me this week, if you are trying to make a difficult decision, stop and ask yourself how you feel about it inside – if there is conflict and unrest, then it’s probably not the right decision for you. It there is peace and calmness, It’s probably the right path for you. God doesn’t talk to you in loud showy ways unless he really needs to get your attention. If you’re already trying to do God’s will, all you have to do is shut up and listen.
All my life, I have been trying to figure out am I living the life that God (and/or universe) had intended for me. I’m trying to get myself into a habit more of praying to God when I need to make a life/career decision. God wants a personal relationship with him. He doesn’t want to only hear about our lives and concerns when we go to church but in our everyday trials – no matter how silly they may seem.
So, when I asked myself if God is happy with the way my life is heading, I got a strange surprise. I was calm, peaceful, and dare I say – happy, almost joyful. Anyone who used to know me, knew that Eeyore used to have nothing on me when it came to wallowing in sadness and self-pity. God was saying stop looking for things that might cause you trauma and strife and enjoy this peaceful period of my life he has gifted me. It is truly good – and okay – to finally be happy. A happiness that does not depend on other people but on myself and what I’m wanting to achieve in my life. I’m pursuing the next goal – stay tuned!
Until next time!
R.R. Peace, Author and Poet 