FINDING JOY

What on Earth….literally, is going on in this world? The events in New Orleans last week on the very 1st day of the year just broke my heart. The sad truth is events like this are never going to stop. But one day we will, we’ll take our last breath. As I’m in the 2nd half of my life, I’m really asking myself, why aren’t I doing more of the things that bring me Joy? And I’m telling myself to treasure those joyful moments even more deeply. As cliche as it is, we only get one life and when that last breath comes, I hope my soul goes out on a joyful note and I hope yours does too. 

As I look back at this past year, I’m sad at how many people seem to have lost their Joy. I’m ashamed at sometimes being made to feel guilty when I get giddy excited about something. There are so many joy squashers out there! The world is full of negative Nellie’s, bullies of all ages and hurting souls. Let’s show them what Joy is by wearing it on our sleeve, by embracing the happiness that small and big things bring us. 

I had a very hard time finding joy in the first half of 2024. There were days I couldn’t find strength, or grace or even one foot in front of the other. I often wondered if I’d ever even smile or laugh again? But as with everyone, happiness ebbs and flows, more bad times are to come but so are the good ones. So what if even during the rough times, we stop and recognize Joy! A warm cup of tea on a cold afternoon, a fresh dye job on my very graying roots, a hug from a loved one, my doggie just sitting by my side in solitude. Joys don’t have to be ginormous, really it’s the culmination of small joys that lights the way even on the darkest days. 

And remember, joy may not be here today but there’s memories of joys, there’s a future with joys! I often think about my happiest, most joyful memories when I’m feeling low. 

How I wish I could send everyone, especially those hurting, a big ole helping of Joy! While that’s not possible, I hope I can at least spread it to those I encounter. It’s one of the reasons I came back to blogging, even spreading a speck of Joy is worth it. The flame on my candle is small but if I can light yours, I’ll do it! If we all try harder to see the Joy, maybe we’ll rub off on others. 

 

Never let anyone take JOY from you! Relish it, soak it up because those joys are meant for YOU! But what a gift to share some of it with others. 

 

Do you recognize Joy? Do you allow yourself to feel it? 

Can you let go of the painful, the bad, and be open to it!

And please tell me you try to spread it as best you can my sweet friends! 

 I WISH YOU AN ABUNDANCE OF JOY 

IN THE FRESH NEW YEAR AHEAD!!

PS: Something else that brings me joy besides the obvious, most precious....my family...…is there's only 298 days til I decorate for Christmas again. LOL!! Man, our home looks sparse; clean but sparse, LOL!

 

Linking up with Between Naps on the Porch // Thursday Fashion Files // I Do deClaire // Momfessionals // Hello Monday

xoxo