08/31/2026
Sometimes we have to look for joy but it's always there. Even on the darkest days it's present. It might even be just a whisper in the storm but I promise it's there. It can even be in the small day to day things that you take for granted or overlook in the business of life. However, if you would slow down you would notice it. I think it's tragic that people can get so caught up in themselves and rushing here and there that they miss out on the simple things in life that bring every day joys. Every morning during the hummingbird season I enjoy sitting by the kitchen window and eating my breakfast so that I can enjoy watching the hummingbirds at the feeder. It's something that I have done for years. I love watching my hummingbirds and it brings me such joy and pleasure. It's amazing how something so small can bring such great joy. Nature in all of its forms brings me joy. Whether it's a beautiful sunny day or a peaceful rainy day, beautiful flowers blooming in the yard, etc. There is so much joy and beauty around us if we take a moment to pause and look for it.
Talking to friends and family is another joy. Too often people see it as an inconvenience and just something that they would rather not have to do because they are busy. If they do call someone they want it to be quick and over soon so they can hurry on to the next thing. They rush through their lives like that and never slow down to enjoy the moment or the person that they are speaking to. They end up missing the simple joy of conversation with another person and the joy of talking to someone that loves and cares about them. I think sometimes we can be so busy rushing through life that we take for granted those in our lives that God blessed us with. We're too busy to spend time with our family and friends. That is tragic because then one day you could wake up and then they'll be gone. You'll wish then that you had made more of an effort to reach out to them or spend time with them. Those simple joys will be gone and then you can't get them back. If only you had slowed down just long enough in life to enjoy the simple things.
I think sometimes we expect joy to be big and loud. Occasionally it can be but more often it's quiet and simple. You don't have to look hard for it either. It is found with friends and family, our beloved pets, a good meal, a beautiful painting, nature, a good book, a gorgeous and moving Classical music piece, a child's laughter, etc. God puts joy all around us every day. The question is are you too busy to notice it? If so, slow down and take time for it because if you don't, your life is going to pass you by. You will end up missing out on what matters most in life and that would be tragic. Choose joy!