Things fell off the table as my exuberant 4 year old ran through the house. He loved his toys, was eager to imitate his sister, pat the dog, hug his monkey, and occasionally hug me. In a diner one day, he gazed up at the waitress and said, “You’re beautiful.” She was so touched and in love with him. Those two words, coming from an incredibly cute 4-year-old, instantly made her know she was loved and important.
Joy spread like wildfire as he joyfully played and found the best in everyone. My kid’s spontaneous antics and wonderful creativity kept me from focusing on the drudgery of parenthood. Joy does not come as easily for many. But it is well worth the effort to cultivate it.
A new year’s resolution to cultivate joy, is not only fun, but it will imbue everything you do! Your joy will bless others with happiness as you look for what brings you joy in others. Joy floods your brain and body with happiness hormones dopamine, serotonin, and others, which open up the learning centers in your brain. You are smarter, more creative, have more energy, and can learn more easily.
Joy is an inner spiritual gift that each of us has. It’s free with no negative side effects. Let’s cultivate joy daily, celebrate the big wins, remember past joys, and the small, cherished moments of love.
