“Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.” Henri Nouwen
It may seem odd to consider this on the day that Michael Brown’s family must bury their son. The murder, injustice, and despair can make joy seem impossible or certainly unattainable. And sadly Michael Brown no longer has the option of choosing joy. But we do. We can choose to seek light and joy even in moments that seem so dark.
The three not so simple but possible steps to choosing joy:
- Make a choice. Decide to seek and see goodness in people and situations.
- Ask for help. When you can only see darkness and pain don’t deal with it alone but ask others to sit with you.
- Share the goodness that you find. Don’t keep it hidden but share it with others.
When you’re in the midst of despair how do you choose and find joy? Share your story with us so we can learn from each other.