It's not a Fruit of the Spirit?

What? Seriousness isn't a fruit of the Spirit? I guess I knew that when I think back at the verse but the statement resounded so loudly in my spirit on Monday night. For someone who's always been labeled 'serious' on more than one occasion, I really had to take a step back and examine myself. When I think about times or instances that I'm most likely to act serious it's usually operating out of my striving or plainly speaking...operating out of my flesh. Keep in mind, I'm talking about myself here. Seriousness in my mind was always connected to maturity. So in attempt to be mature I started over analyzing situations myself and not bringing them before my Father; releasing me from having to have the answer, appear mature, all knowing and in turn act prideful.

I'm not saying that it's a bad thing to be serious because I truly believe that there is a time and place for seriousness but as a lifestyle? I have to question my identity in Christ. Do I know that I am outrageously loved? What am I trying to prove? I'm not beating myself up over this but simply wanting to ask God: Has seriousness played to large of a role in my life? In what ways am I taking You or Life too seriously? Help me Lord to follow your lead.

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." Galatians 5:22&23

**By the way, Edgar Allen Poe looked to be very serious, hence the picture I chose:)