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Reason to Smile




This week I volunteered at a camp for kids and teens who have had a special person die.  My sweet campers continued to comment on how much I smile. 

I LOVE that this is something people recognize about me, until this assumption is made: “Aren’t you happy all the time?”

After losing my own dad, I don’t want those kiddos or anyone else to think I’m invincible to pain and that their own emotions aren’t valid. 

I miss my dad. That makes me sad. 

People have said hurtful things to me. That makes me angry. 

I’ve been bold just to get shot down. That’s hurtful. 

Emotions are SO fleeting. But that’s NORMAL! But here are some things that don’t change. 

My Creator

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Ephesians 2:10)

My Strength

She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. (Prov. 31:25)

God’s love for me

You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you. (Psalm 86:5)

My Joy

The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. (Psalm 28:7)


I’m not happy all the time. Some days are hard, and that’s okay. But my Creator- the same creator that made everything around us- loves me, forgives me, provides for me, and fills me with eternal JOY that is forever constant. 

THAT is my reason to smile!

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