"Gloom we have always with us, a rank and sturdy weed, by joy requires tending."
~ Barbara Holland
Personally, I like a gloomy day now and then. It might lead me to bread baking or getting cozy with a good book and a fleecy blanket.
Feeling gloomy might lead
to calling an old friend or journaling or a nap or to look at my vision board and dream.
And I happen to like weeds, especially the ones that flower and draw bees and butterflies.
But I don't welcome weeks of gloomy skies or stretches of emotional gloom or only weeds in my garden.
So, gloom can be good, yes? Maybe?
But joy, ahh! Who doesn't love blue skies, warm sunshine, neatly cultivated gardens, and feeling so happy, hopeful, and grateful to be
alive that we are ready to skip, dance, or burst into song?
Of course, there's quiet joy, which is very nice too.
The point is that we can experience joy in various ways via its many colors, shapes, sounds, scents, sights, and volumes. We can even know joy on gloomy days and when we are feeling down. But that's when joy usually needs to be stirred. It may need to be coaxed. That's why it's wise to cultivate it regularly with gratitude and
doing things that bring us joy.
Today, let's remember that joy is always within us and that we can open ourselves to experiencing it in some way, big or small, loud or soft.
Joy will meet us at the door of gratitude. Let's be sure to open that door today.
Happily,
Charlene
PS - Consider doing something special just for you today, something from your
"Joy and Well-Being List" if you have one. If you don't, maybe start one.
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JOY: May it keep your heart open and filled with light.
