Joy is an inside job. If you wait for the world to change so you can then be joyful, you will wait eternally. If you desire more joy in the world, be the example. Beyond the need to have or do anything is a deep joy within you waiting to be recognized and experienced now, and only now. Joy is unconditional because joy is what your Soul is made of. It’s easy to forget, when you fear a human need or desire may not be met, or wasn’t met.  Joy arises when you let go of the idea something is missing, and relax into the fullness of your Soul.

“He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for that which he has.” ~ Epictetus 

Joy happens when you stop trying to fix what is “wrong,” relax, and allow yourself to be who you are, allow others to be who they are, and life to be what it is. Joy happens when you let go of having a negative outlook, and remember the divine goodness in and around you. Yes, there are challenges, but there can also be joy in meeting challenges, in realizing your joyful loving can be the solution.

People who have become accustomed to having problems can easily forget the possibility their whole days can be filled with joy. The choice to feel joy is the choice to know yourself, and the true essence of life. No matter what you are going through, you can raise your joy quotient because your Soul’s presence is joy. You can be dropped in so deep, your divine joy includes every kind of experience and emotion. 

Instead of comparing anything to your past, you can be in wonderment of the infinite idiosyncrasies of life. Every moment is uniquely beautiful when you look with your heart-centered vision.  Rather than have an opinion, you can be in awe of the unknown, of the magic that is a reflection of yourSelf.  To begin experiencing more joy today, first, slow down and see if you can rest in your heart,  and then allow your whole self to drink-in the many gifts of each magical moment.  If you feel too stirred up, clear the emotions, then find out what’s the matter from your Inner Child.  Lovingly talk to him/her in your gut, find out what he/she needs and desires, and follow through.  You deserve the happiness of your soul now!

There is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way!   ~    Thich Nhat Hanh