Even a wounded world is feeding us. Even a wounded world holds us, giving us moments of wonder and joy. I choose joy over despair. Not because I have my head in the sand, but because joy is what the earth gives me daily and I must return the gift.

Robin Wall Kimmerer

Joy exists even in a hurting world. This month we are exploring how we open to joy. Joy isn’t a static state that we arrive at. Instead it’s an experience we encounter when we stop and notice wonder, when we notice the gifts that the earth offers us on a regular basis. How can we do better at being captivated by joy every single day in some small way?

Designer and author, Ingrid Fetell Lee, encourages the simple practice of “Joyspotting.” Joyspotting is paying attention and savoring images and experiences of joy. Keeping a joy notebook is a great way to engage this practice.

Take a moment right now as you read this to bring to mind one joy from today. My list (because why stop at just one joyful moment?!) includes:

• Playing laser lights with my cat Belle.
• Lunch with a friend.
• Leaves of many colors.
• Sun streaming through clouds.
• Receiving a note of appreciation.
• Snuggling in front of the fire.
• Laughter.
• Twinkle lights.

I hope this month you’ll take a little time to identify at least one joy every day. What an incredible gift that would be to yourself. What a meaningful way to honor the gifts of this earth.

I wish you many moments of joy in this holiday season.

With love,

Rev. Sandra