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By Dean Kelly

I have been very blessed, growing up as a military dependent and then due to the generosity of churches that sent me on mission trips, to have been to five of the seven continents. My wife and I have a map on our wall of the United States with each state color-coded for where we have been. 

We have covered most of the country, basically missing the very northwest and very northeast states. We have been able to take several vacations over the years, mostly in the south. We absolutely loved a visit to Scotland, on church business, a few years ago. We have been blessed to visit some wonderful places through the years.

I very often hear some speak of “their happy place.” Some absolutely love the beach. Some have a mountain hideout. Some have a favorite vacation spot. For some it is at the lake. For some, to be honest, it is a getaway from kids or from mates. Sadly, some have never been able to find a happy place. When I hear someone speak of his/her “happy place” it makes me think about mine. Where is my happy place?

1. My happy place is wherever my wife of almost 50 years and I are together. The command to leave and cleave (Genesis 1:24) is the basis on which a marriage is strengthened. Even in unsettled times, times of concern, loss, despair, etc., we can make it through – together, joining hands in faith toward God. I am undoubtedly in my happy place with her.
2. I look forward to my ultimate happy place. When I walk the street of gold and join the chorus of the angels and the saved of all the ages as we sing praises to God throughout a glorious eternity, I will be in my truly happy place. No place on earth can come near to that land where tears no more fall and where death is banned. 

I want to go to that happy place. Join me at the cross, for it is there the journey to that truly happy place begins.

Dean Kelly is minister at Highland Home Church of Christ.