Awake
November 25, 2020
Thinking with Thomas
January 10, 2021
I have been thinking about joy for a few years. In the beginning, it was a whisper that there was more to it than credited. Then a further pondering because something in me thought that it was a key to something meaningful. Joy is more than fun or laughter or happiness; there is something that resonates a depth about it regarding our human nature and our spirituality. Then there has been the realizing that joy is a state of being that is entwined with living the moment, being free, and being at peace. Now I find that joy is vital in my life. My joy is an expression of my sense of feeling comfortable within and of my faith.
As we grow and take upon ourselves more and more responsibilities, we become serious about taking life seriously. But I have learned that everything cannot be about seriousness, worry, problem-solving, or surviving. We have all experienced being in a very tense or sad situation, and someone (bless their heart) releases us from its grip with humor. The release is felt gratefully by everyone. The remaining time is spent much better and even with a surge of energy. If humor can be a safety release valve, joy would be a balm for everyday living.
How can I let more joy into my life?
In my experience, the fastest way to be in joy is to keep myself focused at the moment. Live to the best of my ability the moment I am at. My body being somewhere, but my mind elsewhere is not conducive to joy. Especially not being in the past nor in the future. And forget about being in another persons’ head. The best way to allow joy into my life is to be fully present in it. Not only do I find ease and joy to then happen naturally, but it increases. It increases because I become lighter- the less mental baggage, more space for ease/peace/joy. Try it!
Another thing I did was really question how much faith did I really have. Do I really believe what I believe in? or do I not? For me to have faith meant that I trusted that Higher Power… fully. Responding to myself- sort of, kind of, sometimes, maybe, not really, I need more information – meant lacking faith. Which means I don’t trust, which means that I cannot be at peace. To my blessing, I found that yes, I do have faith, but I was awful at showing it. I knew with all certainty daily things would turn out well but being crabby about it or reacting tense as if something was a big deal made my faith seem small. When, in fact, I knew everything would turn out well. I needed to put my faith forward and act, such as my faith is. As I trust, I am joyful, and that is how I go about my days and circumstances now. My joy is an expression of my faith.
There is joy in being yourself and living your integrity. I completely take upon myself the freedom to be me. I must be comfortable in being myself, and to me, that means to live in my integrity.
There are so many ways to invite joy into our lives. I love seeing people of whom you can see the joy in the twinkle of their eyes, in their easy smile. I know they have peace in their hearts, even when they may have troubles or pain. I know they are strong because I know that-
Joy strengthens you.
I try to save up on joy with the same importance others save money in the bank. Besides what I mentioned before, joy can be derived from simple things or all-out significant events like weddings or travels. I accumulate joys all day, every day. I don’t wait for the big windfalls—laughter with my son over hamburgers in the car. Kisses to my husband as he’s rushing to go to work, and his seriousness washes away and leaves laughing. Talking to the dogs and having them wag their tails in agreement. Giggling like three-year-olds with my sisters. Enjoying a sunny blue-skied day after days of rain. Excitedly waiting for a new family member to arrive.
Joy is your heart, and every cell in your body appreciating what is. Appreciating is being thankful, and the heavens love a thankful heart.
Joy builds up your fortitude. Builds up your relationships. Joy strengthens. If we only have worry, sadness, anger, or fear, at some point, we will crack because there is only so much of that we can endure. Joy is a balm that can help sustain us to get through the tough times.
When challenging times are upon you, a reservoir of joy is very much needed. You can withdraw from your savings of joy to help strengthen your faith in better times to come. Joy helps sustain you and your faith. Sometimes the joyful times you had with someone you love help you both endure and carry on at a trying time. Joy helps sustain your love as well.
Joy has a surprisingly beautiful depth about it. Entwined with faith, peace, freedom, and the loving of life. Joy is vital for our living.
Wishing for you a lovely, joyful week.
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