More than that, how do you find joy when you are faced with something or someone that sucks the joy right out of you?
A lot of times, I find joy in simple things. Well, simple in terms of finding myself delighted by something unexpected- like a beautiful sunrise, brightly colored flowers, a hug from one of my kids at the exact right time.
Sometimes I know I need to go searching for it. Sometimes, I'm around someone who is cranky or angry or depressed and I can easily get sucked into their negative emotion. It's like I struggle to share my joy with them in such a way that I can in any way alleviate their negative feelings.
I'm the worst at this with my husband. If Jeff is stressed out, frustrated, angry, whatever, I tend to absorb his feelings instead of responding to him with love and joy. It's an ongoing work in progress to figure that one out, to determine how I can change my response.
I do pretty well at this at work. Work can be remarkably frustrating. Even before my recent epiphany, I think I'm pretty well known for being a generally happy, easy to get along with, and joy filled kind of person in my workplace.
Here are some moments of joy I've had recently.
Meeting a neighborhood pet who happens to be a large and gentle wolf.
Swinging on the playground.
Finding out that my daughter is in touch with kindness and appreciation.
A candy buffet at the wedding of members of my church family.
Laughter with friends and with my honey in a photo booth!
Maybe focusing on the moments of joy helps us stay fortified when faced with joy-suckers?
2 comments:
There was a photo booth at the wedding?
There was a photo booth at a wedding we attended in November- it was AWESOME! Everyone should have one at their wedding! I used to get sucked into the husband's negativity but, once it became constant, I just ignore it. He gets sucked in by his family. I refuse. Life is just better that way! :)
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