You're Not 'In' Without The Right Toys!

When I was a small child one of my favourite pastimes was to peruse a myriad of catalogues featuring model aeroplanes. I would dream of owning a model of the different airlines my father and I would travel on. And I spent countless hours imagining ways to earn money so I could purchase additions to my collection.

All these years later the models are a distant past. But at the time, it was just a child’s enjoyment of those simple fantasies, in a mind that had yet to be laboured with all the complexities of an adult life.

Our human condition is to still have those dreams and fantasies of acquiring things, albeit now on a much grander scale. But for some, the purpose has taken on a new meaning. No longer are they simple thoughts and dreams, but now they become the precursor to happiness or contentment.

Young people often seem driven by the latest gadget or fashion accessory. Men long for the fastest cars and many women feel they are of a lesser society unless they’re sporting the ubiquitous designer handbag.

Some people may never outgrow this pattern of thinking and living, and years of their lives become lost over their inability to appreciate life’s more simple pleasures. They become embittered and angry when they see others who have things they do not have. And some become obsessed trying to ensure they have the full regalia, whether it throws them hopelessly into debt or not.

The secret to happiness is found by investing your heart in others and from the joy you’ll receive from watching them grow. It’s what Jesus did his entire life; and even in the saddest of times He was a man who knew joy throughout His life.

If you want to find your own happiness, for a change try investing in others.


Then Jesus said to His host, ‘When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or relatives, or your rich neighbours; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.’ Luke 14:12-14

Posted for Fr Bill

..

Words of Comfort for the Dying

The Pain of Disappointment

The Book in the Attic

.