When my children were young, my husband and I didn’t celebrate Halloween. Rest assured, my children had tons of costumes (but nothing scary) and lots of candy (well, except jawbreakers) all year long.

We brought them to Family Fun Night held at church every Oct. 31, and my daughter Victoria, who was born on that date, always thought it was her birthday party.

Fast forward to the present and you will find my daughters stressing over Halloween costumes for their girls. My three granddaughters have a different costume for every event they attend.

Olivia’s favorite costume was a waffle complete with a pat of butter. Her mom made a hair bow with a bottle of syrup to complete the ensemble.

Adeline enjoyed dressing as Pippi Longstocking, especially when her mom braided her hair over heavy gauge wire to get the right look.

And this year, 3-year-old Charlie said she wanted to be a blue lamp.

“Well, that’s unique,” said her mom.

“I know,” she said. “Everyone else will probably want to be a red or yellow lamp.”

I have no explanation for that, but I do wonder how she’d act as a lamp. The girls immediately take on the characteristics of their costume. I understand.

In much the same way, I have discovered that when I choose to put on “a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair” (Isaiah 61:3) I instantly feel better.

Whenever I’m discouraged, I think of this verse and wrap myself up in praise and thanksgiving for all that God has done in my life. Focusing on my blessings overshadows any negative thoughts that would try to weigh me down.

The garment of praise is something I need to wear every day.

Ronny Michel may be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.