“Joy does not simply happen to us. 
We have to choose joy 
and keep choosing it every day." 
- Henri Nouwen

And chose it we can. 

Joy is always available for us, ready to have a portion taken when we reach in for its uplifting light and delight.  

Sometimes we fill big buckets. 

Something we take much less because that's all we can manage. 

When we are filled with grief, for example, we may be able to hold and experience only the amount that fits in the cup formed by the curled palm of our hand.  

It's wise to bring some joy into each day, however, even during the most serious and sad times of life.
Joy can help us cope, be resilient, access all our other gifts, and heal.

And the key to accessing joy is gratitude.

Let's be sure to practice that each day.
 

With love,
Charlene

THE SIXTH GIFT IS JOY.
  May it keep your heart open and filled with light.  
- from The Twelve Gifts of Birth