Choose Joy!

This photo brings a smile to my face because it brings me joy. It represents a sudden and unexpected interruption, truthfully, slightly unsettling. This affectionate cat assertively made itself comfortable on my chest, playfully offering affectionate gestures with vigorous purring. While I could have easily pushed it away, I chose to embrace the moment. I chose gladness.

Choosing joy is deliberate – it requires nurturing. It’s not our automatic response to surprises, challenges, setbacks or changes in plans. It’s akin to exercising a muscle. First, we must recognize and understand that we have the option to choose joy, then, we must strengthen our capacity for it.

Joy differs from happiness. Happiness hinges on circumstances and achieving desired outcomes, while joy emanates from a spiritual place. It offers the ability to choose joy irrespective of circumstances – a place where gratitude is found in the present moment regardless of what is happening. It embodies a belief that life has its highs and lows, yet things will improve and there is hope.

Proverbs 17:22 states, “a joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up bones”. A heart filled with joy holds the ability to heal, whereas a spirit that is broken can negatively impact our well-being. It is essential to nurture our joyfulness to build inner strength when facing life’s numerous challenges. While it may not alter your situation right away, it will nourish your soul. 

So, next time when encountering obstacles, pause, and try joy as your response.

 

Marcy Demelo is an Entrepreneur, Career Coach and Educator, teaching you how to reinvent yourself to live out your passion. Find her on Instagram at waymaker_inc and at www.waymakerinc.ca.