We have an elder that if asked, how she is doing, she will always reply, “I Couldn’t be better!” I know these words are not easy for her to say. She has faced many obstacles in life and if someone had an excuse to complain or be angry at others or even God, it is her. But she chooses every day to be content.
When I hear her respond this way, I’m reminded of a great leader in the Bible, his name was Joseph. Joseph dealt with many obstacles and difficulties, his family gave him away when he was a teen, and he was sold into slavery, and was in prison for many years. None of these things were a result of anything he did wrong; in fact, his integrity and character were above reproach. Yet, somehow, during these difficult times, Joseph too was always content. Joseph could have easily given up, or resolved himself to defeat. He had every reason to be angry at God and hateful to his family, but not Joseph, he worked harder than ever and he was laser focused on doing the right thing. I can just imagine when someone asked him how he was; his answer was similar to our residents, “I couldn’t be better.”
What is amazing about Josephs story is that many years later, because of Joseph’s commitment to contentment Pharaoh, the leader of Egypt said this to Joseph, “Even though I am pharaoh of Egypt, no one anywhere in Egypt will do anything without Josephs permission. “Genesis 41:44. WOW!!
Whether or not Joseph had become second in command of a nation or been a servant in prison for the rest of his life, I believe Joseph would have done what we are all challenged to do in Philippians 4:11,” be content in whatever our circumstances.”
There are special people in the world who know how to be content daily. I’m proud I found one of these people; the elder in our building reminds me all the time to reach for the stars while being content.
Darren Tucker, Director of Spirituality
Signature Healthcare at the Courtyard