During challenging times, it's easy to just stop and
think about ourselves only.
All our 'philosophies' and mojo like doctrines that
we hold dear seem to waiver.
All that good willed momentum seems to come to a
blinding stop and we think;
'Yeah, that is good during good times, but this is different.
It can't help me with this problem."
But the truth is, that is when we need to hold on to what we know works.
I'm always trying to find the bright side, the 'up side', the
silver lining in things.
It's a lesson I learned well years ago from my good friend JoAnne,
who despite being seriously ill, always looked on the bright side,
never complained, and always took time out to take care of her
family and friends.

This wonderful lesson has been my bedrock for years, and I LEAN on it.
Recently, some challenging times hit my family and it would
have been easy to just get upset, gripe, complain, become selfish.
But that is not the message I want to send out during my life.
I choose to still try and see the 'upside' of things.
You know what? I was able to find plenty of things to be
happy and grateful about.

If you CHOOSE to look at the bright side,
ESPECIALLY during times of trouble,
this optimistic view will actually HELP YOU get through.
Really.

~ Happigal

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Smile Lyrics
Theme Music for Modern Times
(Music by Charles "Charlie" Chaplin -- Lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons)

Smile tho' your heart is aching,

Smile even tho' it's breaking,

When there are clouds in the sky

You'll get by,

If you smile
 thro' your fear and sorrow,

Smile and maybe tomorrow,

You'll see the sun come shin-ing thro' for you

Light up your face with gladness,

Hide ev-'ry trace of sadness,

Al -'tho a tear may be ever so near,

That's the time,

You must keep on trying,

Smile, what's the use of crying,

You'll find that life is still worth-while,

If you just smile...