Finding Joy

“The hope of those who do right is joy and celebration, but the only prospect for those who do wrong is futility.” (Proverbs 10:28 VOICE)

 

It was a cold day for a run. The wind chill was well below zero. I was dressed in multiple layers from head to toe. The only part that was not covered was a small sliver of skin on my forehead. As I ran the first mile, I was fixated on the cold wind hitting my forehead. Even though the rest of my body was warm, all I could think about was my forehead. By the second mile, I made a conscious decision to focus on all that was good. I thanked God for all my warm running gear, my health, the sunshine, the blue sky, the safe roads, the solitude, and the quietness of a winter morning. By the time I finished my run, I felt joyful. 

 

I have a penchant for fixating on the one thing that isn’t going well while taking all the other things for granted. I understand the futility of this habit. Lately I have been trying to redirect my attitude. I consciously cultivate gratitude in my heart. This helps me appreciate all that is good. 

 

I’ve also realized the importance of finding joy in daily routines: the feeling of accomplishment after my daily run, the warmth of a hot shower, the satisfaction of chopping up vegetables for a salad, the comfort of a good book, the softness of my dog’s fur, the gratification of a full stomach, the gladness I feel when getting messages from loved ones, the solace of knowing my family is safe and healthy. If any of these little pleasures were taken away for a day, I would be miserable. Appreciating these daily delights brings me joy.