I never thought much about the commentary of this chubby little bear...but now; I realize maybe his words apply to more than just children. A. A Milne's fictional children's character Winnie-the-Pooh has quite a bit to say on the topics of life, love and happiness. Here's just a few:

1. "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That's why we call it the present."

The past is a daunting thing. But, it is also behind us-done, finished. Good or bad, we do not hold the power to change it. We can, however, control our current situation and make the best of that. And, like Winnie the Pooh points out, the present is a gift. We are not guaranteed tomorrow, so we have to embrace and enjoy the day God has given us. The future's a mystery...but it's all in God's hands so we will be just fine.

2. "Promise me you'll always remember you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think."

This quote is actually from Christopher Robin directed to Pooh. I think this is a great quote considering our generation seems to be constantly battling with the concept of self-image, self-worth and, acceptance. When you doubt yourself, remember these words, even though it may seem foolish. You ARE braver than you believe, you ARE stronger than you seem, and you ARE smarter than you think. Stop worrying and stop stressing out. You are perfect, exactly the way you are.

3. "A day without a friend is like a pot without a single drop of honey left inside."

Yesterday night, I watched my best friend of eight years pull out of my driveway and begin the journey to her new home in California; thirty-five hours and almost 3,000 miles away. Although we may have busy and hectic lives, it's so, so important to keep in touch with friends. Friends need to be priorities too and not to be taken for granted. Otherwise, we can be left feeling empty just like Pooh's honey jar.

4. "Life is a journey to be experienced, not a problem to be solved."

What is being said here is simply that life isn't a puzzle to "figure out." Life is meant to be enjoyed and loved. Pursue what you really love, strive to be your best, and just live life to the fullest! There will be some trials thrown your way, but that's what makes the mystery and experience of life absolutely worth it.

5. Piglet: "How do you spell 'love'?"

Pooh: "You don't spell it, you feel it."

Don't question, overthink, or ignore what your heart is telling you. God is at work, and chances are what you're feeling means something.

6. "The nice thing about the rain, is that it stops eventually."

Trials and tribulations are just a part of life. Although they are challenging at the time, usually they will make us stronger. And, fortunately, the good thing is they are never permanent. Like Pooh reminds us, just as the storm passes, so your troubles will pass too.

Lastly, but most definitely not least:

7. "Let's begin by taking a smallish nap or two."

No commentary needed...life can be stressful!