I am, after all, a Four. And Fours like hanging out in the darker corners of life, or in my case, hiding out in my serenity shell as opposed to fully engaging in life. Sometimes.
I am aware of this inward tendency and so I am just as aware of the need to find moments in the every day that fill me with joy. The moment can be as simple as having a meaningful conversation with someone with whom I am feeling very connected.
Or, drinking a cup of tea in a mindful way, aware of the warmth on my hands, and the nourishing effects of each sip.
These ordinary acts of pleasure fill my days with bite-size moments of joy.
When I do not make a conscious effort to cultivate joy, I am a person who sees the negative in life, in myself and in others. That's not a place which is helpful, or healthy.
I also realize that by cultivating joy within, I am much more able to be compassionate outside myself. I am able to peek out of my shell and stay out for longer periods of time, with the intent of sharing my joy with others.
Oh, how interconnected that makes me feel to humanity!
And isn't that the point of feeling joy? To share this disposition with everyone whose path intersects yours?
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| Sometimes being joyful means putting on a funny hat and letting people share in your silliness Photo taken in Quebec City, Winter 2011 |
What are things you do to cultivate joy-full-ness? Are you naturally joy-full?
Wishing you lots of joy on the path you travel.
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