Finding joy

I have been focusing lately on things that bring joy to my life - my children, my family, friends, sunshine, yoga, music and dancing.  I have relied very heavily on music recently.  I find great solice in the rhythm and can get lost in the lyrics.  There are certain songs that I turn to in times of darkness and others that I play when my mood is lighter.

I dance whenever I get the chance (and, unlike the lyrics to Hotel California "some dance to remember, some dance to forget", I dance to do both). Sometimes I dance at the most inappropriate times but I truly don't care what others think of me! Especially people I will never meet again.  I have come to the realisation that life should be enjoyed not endured. It matters not whether the person I meet on the street on a Tuesday morning as I run with a twist of my hips thinks I am a fool.  What matters is that I had a smile on my face and a happy heart.

Moments of joy are fleeting but I am learning that I can create moments of joy in the mundane. Swinging withe the kids at the park, time spent with my sister, a laugh with colleagues over a hot chocolate, conversations with random strangers.

Recently, my moments of joy have involved other people.  I find it very difficult to be happy when I am alone.  However, a wise friend recently made me aware of the fact that I am also present when I am happiest, even if this is when I am with other people.  This has given me such a great insight into the possibilities that lie ahead.

Like Albert Einstein says "Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow"