FINDING JOY

According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary the definition of joy is "a state of happiness or bliss" and "a source or cause of delight". For me, finding joy in my day is about appreciating and celebrating the simple pleasures that life offers.



Recently a patient came in to see the Doctor and get her blood drawn. I was happy to see her and I asked her how she was doing. She replied, "good, I able to find joy in every day". I loved hearing that. Life without joy is not worth living. For the past year or so I have tried to find something to be joyful about every day. Some days are easy, some days are not, but as I lay down at night I try to take stock and remember the things I found joy in.



Here are a few of my favorite things. Nights cool enough to wear flannel pajamas. The smell of freshly laundered sheets and Benjamin just after a shower. Sitting in my recliner and having my cat on my lap, feeling his soft fur and hearing him purr. Hearing the sound of laughter, hugs, and ice cream. Going for a long walk or swim and rejoicing in my body and feeling it's natural rhythm. Feeling the hot water hit my back first thing in the morning and my first sip of an iced mocha latte with skim milk and no cream. Watching Ben play soccer and seeing Sam run or laugh with their friends. Dew on flowers first thing in the morning, baby ducks, and even the abundance of slugs on the sidewalk after a wet rainy night.



Some days are hard to find joy in and I have to search my mind and let go of the bad stuff to find the one kernel of joy. Sometimes it's walking through my front door at the end of the day or eating a delicious piece of fruit or even finally farting. But every day I find something. Life has to mean something and for me it's about reaching out and finding joy.

Some of you may have noticed that I end some of my blogs by telling you about my joy for the day. So I'm asking you, "Have you found joy today?". Share it, glory in it, embrace it and feel it.