So I ask myself what brings me joy?
Right off the bat, I know it is my children and my dog. Sadly, my husband sometimes makes me happy and joyful but life has caused us heartaches. I also cannot say it is my extended family, because I have never found joy with them. The joy I may have found with them has, is and was always fleeting, sparse and rare.
I have always had to make myself happy. Photography, writing, deep discussions, friends, spiritual pursuits, ghosts, music, children, animals, food and laughs these are just some of the things that bring me joy. Yes I know the ghost part is weird, but really it is fun to see people scared and to get scared. As long as there is no harm. Maybe this is why Ellen DeGeneres does it all the time to celebs. LOL
My children are a joy to be around, even when they are annoying. Because I know they are a blessing! My friends have always brought me joy and laughs!
Some of the small things that bring me joy are:
- A smile from a stranger or anyone
- A kind word
- A gesture
- A pleasing look
- A feeling
Sadly most of us have lost to find joy, due to life’s demands. It seems to start for most of us at 40. I have spent the first half of my 40’s figuring out that life’s demands were weighing me down, physically, mentally and emotionally. I had to rediscover, reevaluate, decompress and reintroduce myself to what makes me joyful and happy. It has been a process and I am still going through it, but I am getting closer to my goal of being happy and joyful again!
Looking at the small things will help to us remember and enjoy the big things in life. Look everyday for the small things that bring you joy and write them down. Keep a Joy Journal. Stop making life so complicated! Enjoy Life!
“The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other’s life.” Richard Bach
“Today I choose life. Every morning when I wake up I can choose joy, happiness, negativity, pain… To feel the freedom that comes from being able to continue to make mistakes and choices – today I choose to feel life, not to deny my humanity but embrace it.” Kevyn Aucoin
“Joy is prayer; joy is strength: joy is love; joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls.” Mother Teresa
“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” Dr. Wayne Dyer
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