Vanity of vanities, says Qoheleth, vanity of vanities! All things are vanity! What prophet has man from all the labor which he toils at under the sun? Ecclesiastes 1:2–3

“Judging from often-depressing tenor of our world, it would seem the opening thoughts of Ecclesiastes contain a certain amount of validity. despite humanity‘s efforts to change, wars continue, distressing poverty and hunger remain, hatred and bigotry still exist. and yet, think of the countless kindnesses others have shown us, the beautiful events we’ve experienced, the comfort of relationships and much more. Rather than doom and gloom, this opening from Ecclesiastes can lead us to appreciate who and what we have, to keep everything in perspective and remember there’s much more to being alive than what resides on the surface of existence.” Sr. Joyce Rupp, O.S.M.

Let us remember that God is our guiding force.

“Think about the good things in life, like sunshine, holidays, feeling loved, special friendships, and laughter. Think about rainbows, blue skies, and beautiful sunsets and feel loved, cared about, and accepted. Remember that in life although there is some bad stuff, good things really do happen, too.” Maria Mullins

Let us stop and thank God for all the good things in our life.

“The closer we get to being who we are meant to be, the brighter we shine.” Author unknown

Each one of us is a small reflection of God‘s love.

“You are such a deserving person, much more than you give yourself credit for being. There are many, many things you do for everyone else. So please, do this one thing for yourself: the next time you picture your future, take the time to brush up on your wishing skills and imagine what a joyful, fulfilling tomorrow looks like… for you.

Don’t just color in a paint-by-numbers image of what you’re ‘expected’ to be. Come up with a picture that truly reflects you’re down-to-the-core desires and your most-hoped-for-goals. make it a masterpiece that shows you with a big smile on your face as you take steps on the path that leads in the direction of your dreams. And use that beautiful image to inspire you to make your life more of what you want it to be.

Do it because this is exactly what you would want for someone else. And do it because you deserve the same considerate, wonderful wish…for yourself. Douglas Pagels

God is with us through difficult times as well as good times.