Happily Ever After

Does anyone believe in ‘Happily Ever After’ anymore? The last time I even thought of this phrase (without grimacing) was back when I was 16 years old. It’s hard to believe that I was naïve enough to imagine that continuous happiness was even possible!

Now, I’d settle for ‘peaceful for the next few minutes,’—but even that seems utopian. I’m grateful for healthy days, safe nights, quiet hours, moments of contentment, and a few seconds of laughter. Perpetual happiness and enjoyment seem overambitious.

I don’t suggest the above sentiments be included in a toast at a wedding. However, the realization that perennial bliss is an unreasonable expectation has actually brought me comfort. It has helped me accept the cyclical nature of life on earth.

“Yes, we should make the most of what God gives, both the bounty and the capacity to enjoy it, accepting what’s given and delighting in the work. It’s God’s gift! God deals out joy in the present, the now.” (Ecclesiastes 5:18-20)

The capacity to extract meaning and wisdom from whatever is given to us—our daily tasks, our relationships, even uncomfortable experiences—this is a gift from God. 

Lord, I don’t ask for happiness, but please grant me contentment for this moment.