July Greetings!
I am genuinely curious. What does the word JOY mean to you?
Oxford defines joy as “a feeling of great pleasure and happiness.”
In these times of great change, mega-crisis, turmoil, extreme weather, societal discord and deep change, there are timeless qualities that have no limits: nature, love, compassion, kindness and beauty. Can you think of others?
Recently, I have revisited JOY amidst all that swirls, challenges and impacts my daily lived experiences. I once associated the word JOY with giddy feelings sparked by something momentous. You know – those over the moon rare moments that only happen once in a while – such as the feeling of falling in love. Joy has come to mean something much deeper and constant, like a flowing stream that offers a frequent feeling, a state that is not giddy, but fluid, serene, peaceful and content.
Truly, I would love to know what Joy is to you.
Whatever JOY is to me and to you,
Let’s create and hold tight more of that – JOY- today.
My Joy Factors – What Joy is to Me
Joy rests in the little things. The big things. It floats in a smile and sometimes explodes with belly laughter. A child. A hug. A good talk. Quality time. Loons on the lake. Nature. Kind humans. Moments between the little and big things. Blooming flowers. Personal Growth. Sunrise. Sunset. Rainbows. Food made with love. Volunteering. Holding tightly to hope, love and peace. Knowing yourself and what you love and giving it your all. Connection. Making someone else’s day. Looking a stranger in the eyes and greeting them with a smile and meaning it. Letting love in and holding it with devotion. Healthy body. Sunshine.
A star-filled sky. Mother Moon.Fireflies. Being brave and bold. Community, belonging, connected. Joy is like a breath of fresh air. Love IS Joy.
What are your JOY Factors? JOY to me is_____________.
Your turn!
In Joy this July,
Nina