What Makes You Smile Through The Pain

Finding The Good in the Bad

I’ve honestly had a really hard week, probably in the top ten hardest weeks of my life.

Mentally I’ve been feeling very clouded and stressed, finding very few things feel like they matter or bring me joy. This happens to me probably two to three times a year and usually only lasts a few days at most.

One thing that has been different this week compared to the past is I’ve found certain things I can’t help but smile at. I think it’s these smiles in the midst of the stress that are serving as a great reminder of what matters most and what deserves my focus:

• I can’t help but smile when I look at my son. Even though he is a huge part of why this week in particular has been really hard, he is one of the biggest sources of joy in my life and I would not trade the feelings he gives me for anything. Selfishly, I cannot wait till he can say “I love you” back to me.

• My wife Jess is always a beacon in the midst of all the stress, life decisions, and complexity that can make me feel overwhelmed and down. She is perfectly optimistic but gives me the space I need to think through what I’m dealing with. I don’t think she even realizes how much better she has made my life and how much joy she brings me and those that surround her.

• My home, we purchased it about three years ago. Even when life is insane I still get an immediate sense of peace walking through the door. In reflection, it’s probably less the house itself and more the people inside it that bring me joy but it is so nice to have a home that is safe, warm, and always has snacks.

Focusing On What Matters Most

This year I’ve been focusing on forming healthy habits: running, journaling, Bible studies, praying, and getting up early to name a few. I think for the second half of the year I’m going to try and be more thoughtful with creating healthy habits around my beautiful wife, son, and home. Focusing on what matters most.