For as long as I can remember, I’ve always believed that we may not be able to choose our circumstances, but we can always choose our response to those circumstances. I’ve preached this through my books and speaking — and tried to live this out in my life. Because the truth is: if we focus on our blessings instead of our problems, we’re guaranteed to feel more encouraged.
Last year, something very unexpected happened to me, and I was presented with an opportunity to put my beliefs and thoughts into action. A routine doctor’s visit turned my life upside down for a moment in time and as I came face-to-face with the possibility of cancer, I realized how much easier these kinds of things are said than done.
I was really scared, nervous, and apprehensive about the future during that time, but I am really thankful for the experience. It gave me a newfound appreciation and empathy for those of you who are enduring major life struggles each and every day.
I know that what I went through pales in comparison to some of the situations you find yourselves in, but in those moments I felt emotions I had never felt before. It also taught me the importance of choosing joy even when life feels heavy and overwhelming — especially since we have no idea what tomorrow will bring, or if something could happen next week that will change the course of our lives.
While we don’t know what will happen tomorrow or next week, we can choose today to embrace life and live as vibrantly and fully as we possibly can. Today is all we are guaranteed. I want to choose joy in my circumstances, dwell in the present, live fully even in the middle of difficult circumstances and discouraging situations, and embrace the beauty surrounding me.
I think when we look around, there is always, always something to be grateful for. Sometimes we have to really look for it, but when we do, we’ll find it — and probably a lot more than just one thing! Truly, you can’t always change your circumstance, but you can always choose your attitude.
And that’s why I created this Choose Joy Canvas as a reminder to choose joy on a daily basis, despite our external circumstances. We need reminders to choose a good attitude — even when life is hard or we feel weary and exhausted.
My hope is that this canvas will encourage you today in whatever you are facing to choose joy. To choose to smile. To choose gratitude.
It might not change or fix a difficult situation, but I promise that it will make it more bearable. No matter how hard life is right now, remember that no one can take away your ability to choose your attitude in the middle of your difficult circumstances. Choose joy.
Get Your “Choose Joy” Canvas For Just $13.50!
I have some really exciting news! Through April 11, you can get the Choose Joy Canvas for just $13.50! No coupon code is required. Just add it to your cart at the sale price. You can order as many as you’d like at this price — maybe consider getting a few as gifts for friends who need the reminder, too?
This canvas measures 8″x 8″ and looks great sitting on a bookshelf or hanging on the wall. As always, shipping is free with any order over $50 from our store.
Get your Choose Joy Canvas for just $13.50 here.
Psst! Did you see all of the other fun products included in our brand-new line of inspirational products with Glory Haus that recently launched!? The line is called “Intentional Life by Crystal Paine” and is available in a number of boutique stores nationwide, as well as online.
I’m SO excited! I had so much fun working on these products — and each was designed specifically as a reminder of powerful, life-impacting truths that have helped to shape and transform my life. Stay tuned in the upcoming weeks for sales we’ll be running on each of the new products!
Sue Sundstrom says
Crystal, these products are great! I especially love the ‘Choose joy’ and ‘You were created to make a difference’.
Well done you!!!!!!! Those products suit you & what you do so very well…and are just a natural extension of your positive, uplifting personality. Thank you for being you. xx
Crystal Paine says
Thank you so much for your kind encouragement!
Teresa says
Are your products manufactured in the USA?
Annie Kate says
Yes, choosing joy and counting our blessings is so important, especially when we are ill. It can make all the difference for us and for our families. I just wrote about that this week to encourage other moms: When Mom is Seriously Ill–Couch Schooling Attitudes http://anniekateshomeschoolreviews.com/2016/04/when-mom-is-seriously-ill-couch-schooling-attitudes/
Crystal Paine says
Thanks so much for sharing!
Krista says
I love all of your new products! Such awesome reminders to stay positive! My favorite is the bracelet- I’ll have to show it to my husband, what a great Mother’s day gift!
Crystal Paine says
Thank you so much!