Just Janel.

Why are you all soooo serious?

I remember back in matric when writing my Head Prefect speech, I was so concerned about saying the profound. I wanted people to remember me...I wanted to be the person they never forget. I even changed the way I spoke when I gave my speeches so that people would sit up and take heed. Man, was I toooo serious! There is a time and place for everything on the earth (I'm not making that up, even the bible says that!). There is a time to be serious and there is a time to laugh and be joyful!

Often we spend our lives hoping that something will change: "I hope something will come along today to make me laugh!" Does that sound familiar? I used to say that all the time, in fact, for the last few years I have not enjoyed my birthdays because I was always waiting for something profound to happen on that day to make me smile- Crazy, but true!

It's not easy to change this way of thinking. We are all on our own journey...from day to day our lives are completely different. So how can I tell you that you must find joy in your life? I have no idea what your journey is about...True, but does it ever really hurt to smile? To take time to laugh? To watch a good movie and find yourself fantasizing about finally meeting Mr Right, getting married, and having ten kids?

A few months ago, going through a particularly bad patch I was forced to take charge of my own happiness. I still have days when I feel like the world has it in for me, but most of all, I feel joy in the knowledge that I am in control of my emotions... and I choose joy:-)

So... paint every nail a different colour, take a long walk to nowhere, call a friend, wear red lipstick and go out dancing. Change your hairstyle, buy a nice pair of shades, take pretty pictures or read a book...have a laugh! Smile!

Things that make me smile...try it!