Choosing Laughter

How I wish that a toddler’s joy of life could be easily transferred to her adults! The reason she leaks delight from every pore is that she doesn’t have to worry or care about anything. Everything in her life is taken care of; her every need is met. Her nose is wiped, her hands are washed, her tummy is full and her bed is warm. Her parents take care of her and protect her. She has no need to be troubled or distressed.

But then, I guess, neither do I. I don’t have to worry. Its a choice I make.

Her ease at laughter, her wake-up-smile, her pure glee: it is all attainable. Joy isn’t simply born of freedom of responsibility, but of freedom of worry. And worry, again, is a choice.

So, today, I want to choose joy over distress, smiles over exasperation, and laughter over worry.

14 Responses to “Choosing Laughter”

  1. Joy says:

    what a sweet picture and a great reminder that it is a choice.

  2. Kristen says:

    Naomi is so stinkin’ cute!

    Our attitude can shape our day, our choice to choose joy over worry, fear, etc.. I know the difference in those days. I want to choose joy too! Great reminder!

  3. shelley says:

    Amen! That’s a great reminder. And that picture is incredible!

  4. Janelle says:

    GORGEOUS picture! That really captures the meaning of your words.

    She is yummy!

  5. Alana says:

    That photo is breathtaking…beautiful.

    I often mull over this when I think of my youngest. He is full of life and joy. I think…what happened to me?

  6. Laurie says:

    Sarah.. you are such an amazing photographer… and you have beautiful daughters! it’s ridiculous!

  7. Renee says:

    Do you practice photography? Your pictures are always so thoughtful. You have a gift in that area, as well.

    I know Naomi has had her emotional ups and downs lately too. Isn’t it great to see them smiling? And she is absolutely beautiful!!

    This is a great post. I often forget that worrying is in my control. Or, that it needn’t be. :)

  8. chrissie says:

    What a beatiful photo! Surreal.
    I so need to be reminded to slow down, ease up, and enjoy all the blessings we are given.
    The sunset tonight was amazing. What a blessing!

  9. Lisa Leonard says:

    So true! And an amazing pic. Love your words :)

  10. Earen says:

    Such profound and great words. The Lord has been teaching me lately just how much of how I feel & think is my own choice. THank you for another great reminder of it. Darling picture too.

  11. Jana says:

    I had my two year old, Josie, sitting with me when I was reading your blog. She saw the photo of your daughter and said, “That’s my Josie!” Thinking it was a picture of her! She loves to sit with me while I read my favorite blogs and yours is one of my very favorites.
    http://www.fortheloveofmissions.blogspot.com

  12. BethAnne says:

    First of all, that is a beautiful picture of your baby (so ethereal). I needed to hear the “choose joy over distress” part today. Thank you. As always I was blessed through your writing.

  13. Pam says:

    I wandered over here from Janelle’s blog. I hope you dont’ mind. Absolutely loved this post. Your girls are beautiful.

  14. Rochelle says:

    What a perfect picture! She is beautiful. This was a great post. Thanks.

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I live in Southern California with my husband and my two girls. You can email me at sarah at sarahmarkley dot com. To read more, click here

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