Breaking The Fast

I learned a lesson today that I would've rather learned about by reading rather than experiencing. I learned a humbling lesson about the power of the tongue. I had been building up expectations all week of having the perfect day today. I don't often have off from work an entire Saturday and I wanted this one to be perfect. I was looking forward to ending my Daniel Fast with a gluten free sandwich at supper from the Prince St. Cafe (bread being a rare treat in and of itself) and eating some chocolate while watching Courageous with my honey. I got my belly filled and sniffed/laughed through an excellent movie, but I struggled to refind the joy I had most of the week while fasting. What happened? Earlier in the day a child of mine started expressing displeasure and I said in exasperation, "I think I'll join you and have a stinky day." Now why in the world would I speak those words? Why do we speak half the things we do? I remember reading some Derek Prince material while ago about the Bible verse, "Life and death is in the power of the tongue. Now choose life." (or something like that) I didn't choose wisely and try as I may in my mind to blame my stinky day on the behavior of others, I chose death or better stated, joylessness. When I asked God why my lovely fasting experience had to end this way, He gently firmly stated, "You chose it. Choose life next time." Yes Father, life and joy is much better. Every moment, help me choose You.