Clarification

I recently blogged about how happy I am. In that post, I highlighted and implied that someone close to me was unhappy because their beliefs differed from mine. (Note: That paragraph of that has been changed in the previous blog.)

As I have discussed it with that person, who I can say is my brother, I realized I was too quick to write it the way I did. It made it sound like I didn't think he could have happiness in his life. And that the only way to be happy is to be a member of the church. My brother is a happy person and is extremely happy with his decisions and new view of the world. I am in no place to say he is unhappy, and I apologize to him for using him as a contrast to my happiness.

I think the reason I used him as an example is that I am certain that if I didn't have the church, I would most definitely be unhappy. There have been times where I haven't been straight on the path the Lord wants, and once I got back, I realized the change from unhappiness to happiness.

However, what I understand now, and really I think I've always understood, is that what brings me joy may cause unhappiness for others. I may not understand how, but I understand it is true. He may not understand how I find so much joy in living the gospel, just as I don't understand how he is not unhappy without it in is life.

Anyway, I love my brother. He loves me. That's what matters. :)

When You Chance to Meet a Frown

I've been working at Home Depot for about two months.

Working at such a place you begin to see regulars, whether it be contractors, business owners, painters, electricians, or just people that do a lot of work around their house. I begin to recognize them, and they recognize me. One thing I hear nearly everyday regards my smile. "Hey, Smiley!" or "Keep that smile!"

It's not just the regulars that say it. It's other customers too. It makes me think.

I like my job, but it's not like I've overly happy to be there every day. Customer service and friendliness is a priority in my workplace, but I don't constantly remind myself to be smiling at everyone I see. I don't notice the smile that is so apparent to those around me.

I guess that means I'm truly happy.

Of course I'm happy. I have many, countless reason to be happy. I have a fantastic, new marriage with an incredible man. I have a loving family and loving in-laws. I'm healthy. I'm employed. The list goes on and on, but the most important piece to this happiness puzzle is the fact that I'm a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

There are many in this world that have different views than I do, some very close to me. They are happy with their choices as well as the direction they've chosen. What makes me happy may not make them happy. But, to me, it seems as if it's a different kind of happy. I'm not in a position to say that they are unhappy people, for the world would be a very grim place if those who do not share my beliefs had no happiness at all. People are happy. But for some reason, mine seems different--deeper almost.

I believe there is that "light" they talk about. I believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and I believe His light shines through me. I love other people. I look on the bright side of things. I feel happy daily. It's not a decision I make on a daily basis to be happy--it's part of a lifestyle I've chosen to live. I know the plan in store for me, and with that knowledge, how can I not be happy?

I've felt the happiness the gospel brings me, and I will never veer from it, no matter which way the world is turning. The church is under attack from many areas--politically, publicly, and for some of us much more privately. People say hurtful things. People speak ill of things I find very sacred and dear to my heart. But I know one thing: I am happy.

And I'm certain it's from a place much bigger than The Home Depot.