Saturday, June 19, 2010

Learning from Toys

Normally, I don't really cry in movies or previews for that matter. But today, it happened twice in the same theater.

There was a trailer for the upcoming Chronicles of Narnia movie: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. And I don't know; there was just something about it that just hit that nerve. Like I said, I don't really know what it was there. Something maybe about seeing the Lion, Reepicheep, Caspian, and the others once again on screen. Or maybe seeing the different scenes of the book coming to life again. Or maybe just knowing who and what the Dufflepuds and the Island Where Dreams Come True are and anticipating what will happen with them. Needless to say, I'm very excited for this movie.

The second round of tears came during the incredibly awesome movie, Toy Story 3. I can't really say to much without ruining the plot, but there was a section in the movie where Woody, Buzz, and the gang were in a very bad situation. So bad, that even Woody was resolved to the only fate that he could see. Through an unexpected (and hilarious) turn of events, Woody, Buzz, and the rest were okay. Since I can't really go that much into detail, I'll just say that the filmmakers gave me a much needed glimpse of God's love, providence, and rescue.

And it was just what I needed.

My last post was a reaction to things that were going on around me that I ultimately have very little control over. It was a post from a weary mind in a weary moment of weakness.

There is so much to be joyful about. See my previous posts if you want to read the extended lists.

We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us... We are far too easily pleased. - from C.S. Lewis' "The Weight of Glory"

I am a half-hearted creature. Infinite joy is offered to someone who seems to only wants to sulk in his own self-pity. I am far too easily pleased with this. Joy is not happiness. Happiness is temporary while joy is an attitude.

In all these things, we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Romans 8:37


Friday, June 18, 2010

Striving

My last post detailed some of the little things that I look for and appreciate. I must admit that, for whatever reason, I'm finding this to be somewhat difficult these last few days. And the worst part is that I can't really put my finger on what exactly is making it difficult.

It's tough. And some days I don't want to even try. I just feel like curling back up in bed and sleeping it all away. There are days where I'm just weary.

I feel that there are days where I have to try very hard to find any joy. I know that I'm blessed beyond imagining. Some days and some hours, I have a difficult time actually remembering that.

So I put on my big boy smile, and press on.

Sometimes for days on end.

Striving to find that joy.