Ever wonder how some people always seem to have a smile on their face, regardless of the situation at hand? Or why some people have such an inviting and warm demeanor despite the fire and brimstone raining in their lives?

Often times I found myself wondering: what on earth compels him or her to be so happy? And is it possible that I could be that happy too?

The answer, I discovered, was all about choices. We cannot control what happens to us but we can control how we respond. We can choose joy over despair; tranquility over chaos; and it’s certainly within our power to choose to let go of all that we cannot change.

Am I saying that being joyful or happy is a choice? Yes, I am. It’s certainly not the easiest choice to make but it’s a choice nonetheless.

Am I saying we disregard painful feelings, circumstances or events? Certainly, not. But at some point, you’re going to have to decide what’s more important: your joy and peace of mind or your pain and suffering.