the drug of approval

Most everyone I know, at one time or another, has been addicted to the drug of approval.  We want the approval of our father, we want the approval of a friend, we want the approval of a partner. 

A ten year old girl walks into the room wearing a pink dress.  We say, "Oh, my you look wonderful!"  She beams with joy.  The next day she walks into the room wearing a green dress.  We look at her and say, "Green?  It's not your best color."  Her countenance falls and she is crushed.  She is addicted to the drug of approval.

All of us would prefer to be liked.  We would prefer to be approved of.  We would prefer praise to criticism.  There are some people that it is pretty important to have their approval.  Your boss would come to mind.  If he or she doesn't approve, it could mean a job change.

But for the most part, we are way too worried about getting others to like us.  What if we spent our energy living and loving, instead of worrying about if everyone liked us?  Maybe they act that way because something is wrong with them instead of you?  Maybe they will never be pleased.

Live well.  Do right.  Love all.  But spend your days in celebration and joy instead of worry.  Don't buy the drug of approval.  God approves already and he is the only one that ultimately gets a vote.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.