When Mother Teresa was asked what it took to work in the grimy streets of Calcutta, she replied, "Hard work and a joyful attitude!" She's right! And the second is harder to find than the first. To be happy, you've got to learn to rise above the "if onlys." If only I'd had more money....if only I'd had more talent.....if only I was better looking. Money never made anybody more generous, talent never made anybody more grateful, and looks never made anybody more fulfilled.
    Settle it once and for all - "things" don't bring joy! The happiest people are not the richest, the most beautiful or the most talented. Instead of depending on externals for excitement, they enjoy the simple things in life. They don't waste time thinking that other pastures are greener. They don't yearn for yesterday or tomorrow. They savour the moment, glad to be alive, enjoying their work, their family, and the blessings God has already given them. Their eyes always look upward and outward. They bend with the wind, adjust to change, enjoy the contests of life, and try to walk in God's purpose for them as individuals.
    Paul was one of those people. That's why he could write letters filled with joy from the most miserable prisons in Europe, while waiting to be executed. Hoe come? Because he realized that unlike your newspaper, which is delivered to you every morning, joy is a garment you have to put on! (Isaiah 61:3). Got yours on today?