pasted-image-22What is your definition of “Joy”?  The world wants us to believe that joy is an experience or emotion that we briefly capture…one that comes from things, people, opportunities, success or even acceptance. The Webster Dictionary defines “Joy” as : the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires.

To me, Joy is a state of mind and an orientation of the heart. It is a gift of wonder, contentment, and hope. But it is not something you wait on, like a gift to be given…but rather, it is something worth pursuing, ideally on a daily basis. 

I find in this overly busy life that most of us totally miss the opportunities to be joyful…we may be genuinely grateful but still so distracted by our busyness that the joy surrounding our day is fleeting at best. Do not be mistaken…gratefulness and joy are two separate emotions!

Ever watch a small child pick up a rock or watch a lady bug crawl over their hand?  Even the simplest of things like homemade cookies, a shooting star or even a whistle can bring on smiles, giggles and a fit of happy dancing!