Openings of Joy

An Opening of Joy sounds pretty good right now.

Joy Can Transform

There is lots of talk of joy now as we go through the holidays. Not all are feeling it; some are. The holidays are a construct with many levels – our faith, consumerism, expectations and desires. The talk of joy permeates the holidays, leaving us with no choice but to hear it. The talk can slow us down or bring us up, depending on how we are feeling about this time.

Joy is a feeling of great happiness or pleasure. It lifts us up. Some think it is a natural state, that is often interfered with. Joy fuels our happiness and well-being. It is part of the emotional balance of our lives. It can be a profound and intense emotion. It can enrich our lives in many ways and is a powerful catalyst for our fulfillment in life. It is worth pursuing. Joy can transform.

Openings are universal and varied. Joy is an emotion that has the ability to change our lives. It can fuel our advancement and growth. It can lift us out of troubled times. It can enhance the strengths we have already. Research has shown that experiencing joy can boost our mood, reduce stress levels, strengthen our immune system, and improve our relationships.

Find The Openings

Sometimes, Openings of joy surprise us. This season can make them more possible, if we are open. During the holidays, more hearts are open and love is in the air. Beauty surrounds us. There are moments of peace, which we can savor and use.  Sometimes, our minds are focused on fun and festivity. Within this energy, we can see and pursue opportunities better than in a different type of environment.

We can help create Openings of joy. By wanting them, using the energy of the season and looking for them. We don’t have to force anything; our awareness is the key – awareness of their possibility and that we want to see them. Helping to create Openings involves discernment, courage, focus and mindfulness. They are there for us to find them.

As Openings of joy appear, we can help them along. By knowing what brings us joy. Committing to having joy be a part of our lives. Honoring joy as an essential part of life and knowing that it is always possible, even in the face of difficult times. Spread joy to others, as best we can. Find small joys whenever possible. Know our sources of joy.

Make It So

Seek joy. It is a worthy endeavor. We grow through joy. Openings of joy help us do so by bringing us joy, showing us where to find joy or by creating joy. Seeking joy can keep us from unwittingly seeking unhappiness or negativity. Joy elevates us, expands us, is a powerful emotion and brings us to our best selves.

Sometimes, joy resides outside of our comfort zone. Many things of value ask a lot of us. Joy may lie right on the edge. That’s how it expands us. Staying in our comfort zone limits and confine us. Openings of joy are a gift to us. We don’t want to pass them by. Let’s look around – are there any Openings of joy in sight? An experience beckoning us? A person who can bring us joy? A change that will make our life better?

Joy has its own power. Once we truly find it, we share in joy’s power and our lives improve. Can we be blissful? Absolutely. As much as possible, let’s make our choices from a place of joy. Let’s learn to find joy anywhere and in any situation.

Be in Joy

Let’s start here. We might as well be in joy, rather than despair or negativity. Joy rocks. We deserve to know it. Be intentional. Look for those Openings of joy!

I’m looking!

Photo: Nowaja, pixabay.com