Message 30 of 30 Trying to be happy only makes you less happy. So, stop trying so hard. Instead, plant an apple tree. Today. From the Fray,-chaplain mesaeh

Message 29 of 30 Everyone serving is a volunteer. We weren't forced to join the military. When we raised our hands to take the oath of service, we made specific commitments. From the Fray,-chaplain mesaeh

Message 28 of 30 Two-thirds of Americans don't take their medicine as prescribed, nor do we go to the doctor as often as we should. But, if charged with caring for another person, we ensure they are tended to properly. To stay healthy in the long-term, we need to "treat ourselves like someone we're responsible for helping." That starts with: * Forgiving yourself * Befriending people who want the best for you, and * Challenging yourself to carry heavy things From the Fray,-chaplain mesaeh

Message 27 of 30 Often, entire seasons of our life hinge on just one decision. Choose poorly, and you'll suffer with regret. This message offers a filter for decision-making that can reduce the number of regrets we deal with. From the Fray,-chaplain mesaeh

Message 26 of 30 If you don't pray often because you "don't know what to say," try using the ACTS Prayer. It's a simple 4-part outline: * Adoration * Confession * Thanksgiving * Supplication From the Fray,-chaplain mesaeh (See also my Toolbox post: How to Pray)

Message 25 of 30 Stop learning to be helpless. It's dangerous.  Find the self-imposed lids to your grittiness, and get rid of them. From the Fray,-chaplain mesaeh

Message 24 of 30 Dr. Seuss, Colonel Sanders, and Michael Jordan all failed. A lot. They also tried again--more times than they failed. That's what grit is: a stubborn determination to persist toward your goals. From the Fray,-chaplain mesaeh

Message 23 of 30 Loneliness is inevitable, but it's not the end of the world. It's not a life sentence--only a life season. The key to getting through a lonely season is remembering: you are not unique. From the Fray,-chaplain mesaeh

Message 22 of 30 There are four things within our control that affect our happiness: faith, family, friendship, and meaningful work. Friendship "halves our sorrow and doubles our joy," but they don't come without effort. From the Fray,-chaplain mesaeh

Message 21 of 30 Every boy needs to hear: you have what it takes to be a man. Every girl needs to hear: you are precious and valuable. Parents have what it takes to give their kids the confidence they need to navigate through their world. From the Fray,-chaplain mesaeh