UP

Mind seems to gravitate to positive images when thinking of the term up. Just seems like a natural relationship.

But up isn't always a good direction. One can feel a high that is artificial and other than beneficial.

I've been dealing with some people with such amazing radical mood swings. They can be so up and then so down.

But the ups are sometimes result of something other than simple joy. Talking to them you find they simply have this as a life style.

Feeling good is a wonderful thing. However if it is based on some motivation other than reasons that are clear and make sense, will that up be genuine?

I have seen this happy in church life too. People being happy, way too happy. Oh they smile a lot, but it isn't grounded in truth.

So it never lasts. And with the Lord He does wish to bring us peace and joy, but realistically.

Never based on some bogus forced type of happiness that is just a mask. Not sure why there idea prevails that you have to smile all the time.

It does seem to be the expectation on some people's parts. And let me tell you that is not always a good thing.

Sadness isn't necessarily a bad issue either. As long as it doesn't become overpowering and negative.

There is a lot of times this holds true in both situations. I feel sad when I notice such approaches of up or down that are not genuine or balanced.

For with the Lord He will let us see the light. It will grant a person the sight to see the reality of colors in moods.

For as the scriptures declare their are seasons in life. Those are both times of joy and times of sadness.

Denying either one will test the spirit's ability to embrace what is real. How often this does other than bring long term contentment.

Like so many things, God wishes us to see ourselves as we really are. How many never want to look.

Others will never even try.