Shock Value: Entry 191 "Joy & Pain"

You young bucks may not remember Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock's and/or Frankie Beverly and Maze's hit songs, "Joy & Pain." The chorus went as such: "Joy & Pain are like sunshine and rain..." He was so right. "Joy" is like sunshine. When you feel "Joy" its like nothing in the world could bother you. "Joy" makes you smile & feel all warm inside. "Joy" soothes the troubled mind, body, & soul. "Joy" motivates you and inspires you. "Joy" is powerful yet dynamic. "Joy" is the bright side of things.

Now "Pain" is like rain. "Pain" reminds you of the things you want to forget. "Pain" discourages you. "Pain" inhibits you from being at your best. "Pain" guides you in the wrong direction and makes you make bad decisions you wouldn't necessarily make otherwise. "Pain" is a burden no one wants to carry. "Pain" is a constant reminder of a mistake you made or a test you failed. "Pain" is tough to deal with because it reminds you of your weaknesses. "Pain" too is powerful yet dynamic. "Pain" represents the dark side of things.

I am probably giving both "Joy & Pain" too much credit. To be honest, "Joy & Pain" are simply feelings you will have to deal with in this life no matter what your do. There is no way you can avoid them or deny them. You may not agree with my assertion as to what each one of them represent because some people enjoy "Pain" or the unpleasantries of life. Others avoid "Joy" or any state of happiness all together. While I don't agree with their choices, it is one of their freedoms to embrace whatever floats their boat. However, I will say this, "Joy & Pain" may mean an number of things to a number of people, but they are extremely important to all of us. Learning how to embrace both "Joy & Pain" will help us become better people. Not allowing "Joy," "Pain," or any of our feelings/emotions to guide our decision making will enable us all to make more informed decisions. There is a time and a place for both "Joy & Pain." Finding that balance between the two is essential. Too much of either could be indeed problematic. Seek "Joy" & try to avoid "Pain" at all cost knowing that both will most certainly find their way to you. Learn to deal with them and keep it moving. There are no stop lights in this journey we call life other then the signs and signals on the road when you are in your vehicle. Keep It Pushing through both "Joy & Pain" type occasions. You have no other choice but to finish this journey, until your time expires.

~Brutha I Choose Joy