Sabotaging Joy

Let Me Count the Ways

^{The joy of this morning's sunrise reflecting off a neighbor's window as I lay in bed}

Joy, supernatural gift of the Holy Spirit.
More than nice feelings, temporary moods, fun times. 
Why do I sabotage joy in my life?
What antidotes to explore, implore? 

Being of the World world distracts from my purpose in life.
Calls me to seek God's transcendentals; Truth, Goodness, Beauty

Complaining narrows intentionality, stifles creativity, limits opportunity. 
Calls me to reframe, to employ 'Complaint Judo', turning negativity on itself.

Perfectionism imposes impossible expectations. 
Calls me to seek compassion, understanding, forgiveness.

Worrying distracts from present joys.
Calls me to trust in God's providential love. 

Paralyzing grief, sorrow, pain blinds me to the ever-present sources of joy.
Calls me to deeper solidarity with Christ's suffering and His example to persevere in mission. 

Immersing in negativity of the world camouflages sources of joy that surround me.
Calls me to seek music, creativity that express gifts of true Joy. 

I choose JOY 

Seeking joy in the little things all about. 
A sunrise, a flower, a bird, a friend, music.
Finding that deep joy promised by God. 

"I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete." John 15

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Beethoven's Ode to Joy click on link

Joyful Joyful We Adore Thee

^{The joy of watching a young Flicker explore our front tree}

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I was inspired to explore the theme of joy as I adjust to recently retiring from one of my greatest sources of joy for the last 4 decades — journeying with adults and teens seeking Baptism.

Writing and photos ©️Karen Howells

^{The joy of watching a Red Breasted Nuthatch taking a bath in our backyard waterfall}