21 March

Joy is such a simple word, so effortless to say, but it is that elusive quality so many miss throughout each day. How to capture fleeting moments between the dredge of life? How to honestly admit that things are far from perfect in one’s life?

Yet, search we do, and always will we seek what we have not, and look in places far and wide to find an answer rare. In reality, of course, joy does not stem from sources external to the all we are, and will not be confused with longing or selfish desire, nor with material gain. Joy will spring up fresh as dew after a gentle morning rain, and greet us when we least expect, and carry us when we’re weak to help us realise the truth we seek.

Stop your searching endlessly, rest and be at peace. Take pleasure in the simple things which keep us company. Value all the times and places, the people you have known. Appreciate the activities you have undertaken in this realm. For you know not what does await you in a future time, and rarely can one see the end before it thus arrives.

Embrace your life, all that it is, and do not be afraid. Shine your beacon in the cold and dark to guide you far from pain. The end is not what many think, in fact there is no end, only ever constant change and new beginnings to help you on your way.

Take a new leaf and turn it over in your palm this day. Look for growth and you will find that joy is with you all the way.