Philippians 4:8

 Days 4 and 5:

Yesterday was a hard day. 

I am naturally an optimistic person and I like to stick to the lighter side of life as much as possible. But, to be totally honest, yesterday sucked (I don't like this word, but no other word quite fit. Please forgive my use of it).

The previous day, I was productive. I created  lesson plans for a social studies unit. I cleaned up my computer files. I read several chapters in my professional development book. I even learned The Cowboy Shuffle. This quarantine thing was going to be ok.

Then yesterday came.

 I struggled to stay focused. I jumped from one activity to another. I paced the room. I thought about the "could've beens". All I wanted to do was curl up in bed and sleep.

Fortunately,  today is a new day. A day to look forward  and to look beyond myself (and these four walls).  

This, I cannot do on my own. 

"Therefore, my brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think on these things." Philippians 4:8

Today, I choose to think about what is true. 

God loves me. 

I was created in the image of God.

Jesus died on the cross to set me free.

I'm forgiven.

Today, I choose to think upon things that are lovely. 

The sun caressing my face as I stand at my open hotel window. 

Today, I choose to think upon things that are pure. 

The sweet message from a coworker's daughter. 

Today, I choose to think upon things that are praiseworthy! 

The beautiful sunset taken from a friend's quarantine hotel.

Today and every day to follow is filled with a series of choices that determine where your mind will dwell. Where your mind dwells, so shall your spirit.

So despite my surroundings, my circumstances, I can choose to live a joyful productive life.

Even here in quarantine.