It’s a Good Day to have a Good Day

               I’ve written a lot lately about the trials and tribulations of my journey with multiple myeloma, and there have been quite a few. But there are also good days. And today is one of them. So, what do you do with the good days when they come? Here’s what mine looks like. 

               First, I work. Work is so important to my mental health. I don’t do well when I am idle. I am a learner by nature --- or as my friends call me --- a geek. I would go to school perpetually, if I had a way to support myself. I don’t necessarily want a degree. I know that’s weird. I just want to learn. I am blessed to work in an environment where I have been allowed to learn. Anyone who knows me knows that I am an excel nerd. Nothing excites me more than learning a new formula.  Yes, work is important on the good days.

               Breathe. Fundamental, yes? But think about it. How often do we take a moment to take a good, deep breath? I’m talking about the kind of breath where you inhale grace and joy and exhale the weariness and pain. One of my favorite scriptures is “Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth”. Psalms 46:10 Throughout the day, I will take a deep breath (be still), feel the peace (know that I am God) and give thanks (exalting God). I honor this verse in other ways in my life, but most commonly throughout my day in this manner.

               Rise by lifting others. I honestly don’t know who said this first, but to whomever it was, thank you. There is no truer statement in my life than this one. It is one I try to live by, and often fail. But, when I get it right, it is the best feeling there is. I do this by tipping my server extra, especially if the service is not stellar. I have no way of knowing what kind of morning they have had.  Maybe they have a sick child or just got a diagnosis like I got. I do it by complimenting the nervous young man in the elevator with the crumpled suit, fidgeting in the corner or the young lady with more piercings and tattoos than skin. Has someone told either of them lately that they are seen, they are worthy, beautiful? It doesn’t cost anything to lift someone else up and I believe God honors those small acts of kindness.

               Rest. On good and bad days, rest is equally important. It renews me and fortifies me for the days ahead. Rest that is chosen on a good day, feels entirely different that rest that is hoisted upon me on a fatigued day. There is great satisfaction in good-day rest.

               Smile. Such a little thing, smiling, and yet so important, to you and to others around you. I like to notify my face that I am having a good day and send that signal to those around me. They should see the fruits of the love, support and prayers they have showered me with on this journey.