Anything May Happen

"There are times when life surprises one, and anything may happen, even what one had hoped for." - Ellen Glasgow, Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist

Yes, there have been times when what I had hoped for actually happened. And sometimes that didn't bring me the happiness I thought it would. I've learned that I don't always know what will truly bring me joy.

I have a friend who wanted to own a restaurant more than anything else in the world. She worked very hard, earned enough money, trained under the best chefs, and finally found the perfect location to open her very own restaurant. About six months after the grand opening she came over for a visit and I asked her how things were going. Her response floored me. She told me that after all was said and done, she wasn't sure that owning a restaurant was really her dream come true after all.  I was shocked and I think she was shocked too after she said it.

The lesson for me is that I don't always know what's involved in any dream I pursue. That's where my faith can take over. I trust that God will guide me to the right place at the right time for the right purpose. When I remember this, I know that my life is just as it should be. When I try to force my will, that's when I run into trouble. Today I'm grateful for all that life has to give to me today. Some days I get what I had hoped for and I'm happy about it. Thank you God!