Intended Misery

So, I've been thinking about the title of this post for a while now. Wondering if its true. Or only sometimes true. Or not at all. If you are miserable, did you intend to be? Maybe not consciously of course, but did you choose it? Do you have to CHOOSE to be miserable? Misery is different than sorrow or depression. It comes with strings attached. You know?
I have been miserable as of late. Blaming my surroundings, my circumstances, my husband, my kids, my family, whatever. Anything but me. But when the only common denominator for misery is myself, I need to get a grip. Look at it for what it is. I am choosing to be miserable. My circumstances are not the greatest but they are certainly not the worst. My relationships need tending but they are still vibrant. My surroundings may be humble and a tad out-dated but they are sound and sufficient.
Can I step on someone else's toes besides my own for a minute here? Misery is not Biblical. (gasp! shock!) Misery is an inward focus on self and not on God. You put God into any equation and you are the victor, every time. It just may not feel like it to my flesh, to the world, to my circumstances. Or to yours, if I may be so bold.
I'm intending joy today. I'll not go so far as to claim it for tomorrow...but today, I'm intending joy. What about you?