A few years ago I noticed an interesting phenomenon when I signed some of my correspondence. I noticed that I used the word “enjoy”. And I thought if enjoy means to take delight or pleasure in an activity or occasion, that’s not exactly what I was trying to say. So, I thought, why don’t I simply write — “in Joy”? So instead of taking delight or pleasure in something – I want to make sure we’re feeling that delight, pleasure or happiness — that is JOY!
Since that realization, I often sign notes, emails, and cards with that salutation. And every time I do, my hope is that the person receiving it takes a beat and thinks about that three-letter word. So, I’ll ask you now, what brings you joy?
Many of you know that music was once my vocation. It’s now my avocation and this time of year, there are so many songs whose lyrics include the word joy; it’s prominently placed and full of promise. However, when I first heard Anita Baker’s recording “You Bring Me Joy” it inspired me in so many ways. Not only because Ms. Baker sings it with a wonderful sultry, seductive timbre, but because the lyrics, written by David Lasley, who passed away this time last year, are so special. They speak about how joy grows from first looks to friendship to love. The lyric explains how joy lifts us up when we’re down. And when I hear them, I’m lifted up thinking about the many ways people, pets, places, and life-time promises have brought me great joy.
In today’s hustle, bustle, hurry and flurry – take a moment to reflect on the joy in your life — your entire life. When did you first recognize joy? How old were you? This feeling is typically acknowledged or experienced later in one’s life but certainly it’s seen in the faces of children this time of year. Where were you? Were you alone or with another? Can you feel that joy now?
It’s my hope that you can. When you’re down, know that these joy-filled memories are always with you. That memory is yours to ignite and at any time you can conjure up that joy especially during the cacophony of this season.
So… whether it’s a phone call to someone you haven’t spoken to in quite some time, a walk in your favorite place, a warm drink by a fire at home or on the beach, a hand to hold with no words shared, a new app, video game or tune, the snuggle of a pet, a child, a special someone… There are so many joy-filled memories we can have and remember. So, whatever you experience during this season of Light, may you experience it “in Joy!”
Dayle