As many of you are aware, there are a number of emotions and decisions involved when one reaches that change of life we call retirement. Change is never easy for any of us. But let me say “thank you” for your affirmations and prayers. And may God’s wisdom and blessings be with us all.

 Several Sunday mornings ago the message was on the power of happiness. In the sermon I shared a piece entitled “How to Be Unhappy.” The words were anonymous, and I am now unable to give you full information about the source. But several individuals requested a copy, so I will share this with you.

How to Be Unhappy

¨ Make little things bother you; don’t just let, but make.

¨ Lose your perspectives on things; don’t put first things first.

¨ Get yourself a good worry, one that you can’t do anything about.

¨ Be a perfectionist—meaning not just doing your best but always be condemning of self and others.

¨ Be right, be always right, be the only one who is right.

¨ Don’t trust or believe people; be suspicious.

¨ Always compare yourself unfavorably to others.

¨ Take personally everything that happens to you.

¨ Don’t give yourself wholeheartedly to anyone or anything.

¨ Always look for the worst; see life as being half-empty.

     As we read these we may see ourselves in the mirror. I believe the positive lessons from these thoughts are obvious. Let us all strive to find happiness in this New Year and to share joy with others. God wants to give to us all the gift of joy!

Joy and Peace, Dennis