I’m thinking everyone has her own definition of joy. And in celebration of my anniversary of life, I thought I’d share mine.
There’s your ecstatic-antsy-pants joy when you’re eagerly anticipating something wonderful.
The monumental joy that washes over you during a life-altering moment.
The slap-happy joy that comes with a big belly laugh.
Joy is the relief you feel after avoiding a close catastrophe.
There’s also the awe-inspiring joy that overwhelms you with something beautiful.
The amazing joy of miracles.
The shared joy between like-minded friends.
The sudden joy of a happy surprise.
All of these are pretty standard. But I prefer the steadfast joy of trust. Understanding that it’s not all sunshine and sparkles but smiling despite of it, and making the best of a bad situation. It’s about goodness and gratitude for life however it shakes out (thank you Sister Joan Weisenbeck!).
That’s the joy that strengthens you and lifts you up.
What is your definition of joy?
Great Emily. I walked in the marsh this morning, the first time since I moved here, and I cried. I didn’t understand that reaction until I read your piece.”There’s also the awe-inspiring joy that overwhelms you with something beautiful.” It was overwhelmingly beautiful down there today. I can’t stop thinking about all that I saw, heard and felt.
It’s about goodness and gratitude for life however it shakes out (thank you Sister Joan Weisenbeck!). This is a keeper. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Your words have brought me joy, Em.
Love, AAR
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