I was volunteering at our local homeless shelter last weekend and learned that Valentine’s Day can be fun for everyone.  I took some craft supplies with me and one of the younger residents helped decorate the shelter and made some beautiful cards.  It didn’t matter that she wasn’t in her own home or that she had to share the work space with a bunch of others.  She just had fun. 

Like so many things in life, it comes down to the choice we make.  We could have spent those hours whining and complaining about how bad  life was treating her,  but instead we had fun.  We made a few items to brighten up the shelter, made the staff a valentine and then  the young resident made a lovely card for her mother.

What made the difference?  In Philippians 4:8, God clearly states the things we should think about.  They are good and pure things.   They are honest and lovely things.  They are things that bring hope and not despair.  What we allow ourselves to dwell on, are the things that determine our attitude and mood.  We can dwell on the hardships we face or on the goodness of God and the hope that it brings; no matter what our situation.

Being homeless is not the end of the world.  It can be difficult and even depressing at times, but it can also be the beginning of a new chapter in your life.  Life is full of unmarked dangers that sneak up on us and slap us in the face.  We all experience difficult times, it’s how we deal with them that makes the difference.  We can go through life with a “woe is me” attitude or find hope and peace in all situations.  The choice is ours.