Stages of life come and go, and we pass on to the next phase before you know it. Seasons and environment change. Things don’t always turn out the way you expect. Sometimes it makes you want to be a kid again! Children seem to have a way of finding joy and wonder in life better than we do as adults. They see life as wonderful! They get excited over little things – and let even small things bring a joy filled moment to their day. You probably remember the story called “It’s a Wonderful Life” that was turned into a movie that many of you re-watch each Christmas. George Bailey has one bad thing lead to another in his life, and he was overcome by the sorrow of unmet expectations and depressing disappointments. He felt like his dreams had died and he should too. He was rescued by a novice angel named Clarence, and he ultimately got to see how wonderful his life really was.
What he discovered was a profound truth. The wonder of life does not depend on the location of the man, but on the posture of the man’s heart. Whether your dreams have been crushed, or there are disappointments on every hand, you do not have to be controlled by your circumstances. Paul said it this way – “I have learned how to be content in every situation. Your joy level isn’t dependent on my circumstances.” You can enjoy a wonder – full life because you choose to live a life full of wonder. You can live a joyfilled life, because you choose joy everyday.