People often say phrases like, “Those were the good old days.” or “They just don’t make them like they used to.” or “No one produces good music anymore.” I find this HIGHLY generalized and untrue. This way of thinking is supposed to give you warm gushy feelings about sock hops and soda shops, but to me it’s very depressing to think that the world is going in a downward spiral. What’s the use of living when life is getting worse?

Every once in a while, my husband and I will go to an unpopulated scenic spot to enjoy a little peace and quiet you don’t normally get in the city. It’s refreshing to look into the horizon and catch a glimpse of perfection. God’s earth. A great big thing He created for us to enjoy. Just because global warming, recession, and blah blah blah is in full effect, that doesn’t mean we aren’t supposed to appreciate what we still have.

Strolling the pier at Seal Beach and taking photos, I kept thinking about how joyful this place must have been and how pleasant it would seem in whatever day it was built. It made me long to be born in that time, but I had to quickly switch my brain back to the present. I was STILL able to enjoy a stroll with my love and take in the sea salted air for a moment in this day and age. I don’t need a time machine to be happy. I just needed peace of mind.

I don’t think the world is a horrible place. Just different. I remember watching movies like Back to the Future and anticipating the day we’d have hoverboards and auto-fitting jackets (where IS that stuff, by they way?!). I’m sure we’ve all seen the convenience of metros, drive thru’s, and microwaves. I say this to segue into the fact that we are NEVER happy with what we have. I believe that’s what inventions are fueled by. “A better tomorrow”. Well, if the “glory days” were so great, why did we have to keep changing things and building robots to take a family’s salary?

I think it’s great to have an educated conversation about politics, religion, or economics. However, to dwell on those things as if there’s no hope is very ineffective. There have ALWAYS been wars, deaths, homelessness, prostitutes, and financial struggles. Despite that, I wish for everyone to take ahold of the joy that God has already given us. In His word, it says:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

-Philippians 4:6-8 (NIV)

We hear this scripture often in church or bible studies because it’s true. If you find yourself being anxious and worrying about a situation, pray to God and also thank Him for the amazing things He’s ALREADY doing in your life now. (I woke up today. I have food in my belly. My lungs work.) Once you start that list, you’ll be amazed at how much peace you begin to have. After you’ve thanked God for what you have, meditate on good things. Instead of wanting to chop off your coworkers head and kick it into oncoming traffic (yes, I so went there), you can focus on how to resolve your conflict with them.

Whenever God gives instruction, it is for our benefit. It definitely works and your mind, body, and spirit will be thankful! Peace be with you.

Blessings,

❤ K. Love