Choosing JOY in the storm

We all did it. We pictured it differently. We gauged our own childhood and knew that either a replica of our childhood would be attempted for our own children or build something entirely different. We fantasized that if we tried hard enough, set boundaries or different rules or less rules, that we had the super powers to build whatever we wanted. To an extent, that is still true! We can’t change the circumstances, a diagnosis or bring back what was lost, but we can change how we respond. It is within you.

You can still be angry and then choose joy. You can still be broken and then choose joy. Choosing joy isn’t a onetime thing. It will need to happen again. And again. And again. Daily. Sorrow will seep-in, tears will flow, fear will steal seconds but do you want to give it hours? Definitely feel your feels, deeply and wholeheartedly. The pain and emotions behind this are real. Choosing joy doesn’t mean forgetting transgressions against you. Nor those you miss. Nor the hard times or low finances. Seeing through the disappointment and devastation and purposely choosing to focus on that which is beautiful. Finding the good despite the gut wrenching bad. Is there good? Can you see it? Can you see it long enough to stop the tears and crack a smile at a child opening a gift. Or maybe even laugh? Have you allowed yourself to laugh? Is it possible to be intentional, to not let fear or devastation steal your joy of the present or stop you from creating it for others?

If you are interested in sharing, let us all know what gets you out of bed each day? What keeps you going? Not just the appointments or siblings that need breakfast in the morning. But what creates JOY in your home? This is entirely individual, but maybe someone here can use a little joy in their feed today.