George Floyd was killed, Minneapolis burned, and protesters stepped to the forefront demanding much needed change. Protests continued to spread from city to city and then to other states and even around the world. Hearts are desperate for dramatic improvements and lives have been destroyed. The chaos in our world weighs heavily. Tears have been the only way to communicate along with hugs and just listening as I come alongside my black sisters and brothers. I am learning to love, to remove any biased thoughts I thought did even exist and hopefully model what love your neighbor really looks like in a hurting world.
How do we choose Joy when everything seems broken? How do we encourage others when sadness and pain are prevalent? For me, I look for what is beautiful. For what edifies and encourages. I look for laughter and meaning. I want to learn something, teach someone and share with others. I want to smile and enable others to do the same.
Whether it is pictures of newly hatched robin's eggs, or the kids in the pool for the first time this season. Sometimes it is siblings playing together and not fighting for a change. The reunion of desperately missed grandparents with grandchildren. A video of contagious laughter that makes me cry laugh also. And sometimes it is words of truth, words of love and necessary words to share. Whatever it is, it brings me joy.
When I am not joy filled, I have to make the concerted effort to choose joy daily.
I thank each and every member of the group. For sharing laughter and compliments. For asking questions and seeking a further connection. For stepping out of their comfort zone and engaging with internet strangers. It is an honest pleasure to Choose Joy Daily with you.
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