Smell The Roses

Ecclesiastes 3:4 "A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance."

Here in the first ten verses of chapter three, our good man, Solomon, explains to us that there is a time for everything. One verse I wanted to focus on is the one above. With so much going on in our personal lives and the world around us, it is good to take a breather and realize there is a time for everything. We must put into perspective that bad things do happen. Why? Well, yesterday it was discussed that because of sin from the first marriage, evil made it's grand appearance. Since then, we have had moments of despair, but as the elders would say, "trouble never lasts."

Life is so short and it is sad to live most of it not realizing how precious it truly is and the people around us. Dwelling on current trials will do nothing in bettering our situations. Cry if you need to, shout even, but after you have done all of that don't forget that better days are ahead. Kevin Hart created this title for one of his comedic debuts called, "Laugh through my pain." I personally believe the funniest people and the brightest smiles have had some of the most painful life experiences. Isn't that amazing? Storms can bring a rainbow and life trials can potentially give us the smile of the century or the frown of the century. It is important to laugh because it is indeed medicine. I believe that's why laughing is after weeping because we can't cry forever. I mean, who would want to? Surround yourself with people who can cheer you up rather than add to your sadness. Trust me; a good laugh helps! I try to laugh every day and smile often because no matter what it looks like, I'm blessed. We have to remind ourselves that we are in fact, totally, and completely blessed! So what you may not have everything you desire, now? You're breathing aren't you? Is that not a HUGE blessing amongst everything else you can name God is doing for you?

So then he says, there is a time to mourn and a time to dance. People mourn for different reasons. Just as weeping, it is perfectly okay to mourn. That is why Jesus said He sent us The Comforter in John 14:26. He knew we would be going through troubles in life and needed a supernatural Strength to Help along this rugged journey. Getting in God's Word helps us deal with hurtful situations. His Word can uplift any soul and that's where we get into dancing. Dancing is good for various reasons. Dancing is a great workout. Also, dancing is a great stress reliever. When was the last time you danced? Maybe, dancing isn't your go to option as far as relieving stress, but we all need to take a break from the hustle and bustle of life and smell the roses, you know? Maybe a family outing, or a walk in the park, drawing, sewing, whatever your "safe place" is so to speak just go there. Those times, those moments are what keeps us sane. Silence the noise and laugh, talk to God, let God talk to you. Just take a break from everything. He is The Author of time so you won't be late for anything or dog tired. I know, I've been there. This past semester I had a Biology test to study for and I stopped my busy schedule to spend time with Him and just "woosah." Tired was not the word while I was trying to study, but He gave me energy afterwards. Didn't even study for the test, but I felt completely better and guess what else? I made an 89 on that test! Why? Because He helped me pass! #WontHeDoIt I'm telling you all it pays to take a breather. Smell the roses while you still have breath to do so good people.