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Joy Returned



Joy is the rare gift
that, when given away,
is returned to you.

When I began this blog 4 years ago, it was focused on sharing the story of my life as a new mom of preemie twins. While those stories are still an integral part of who I am today, I knew there was a greater purpose for this blog, and that one day when I was less sleep deprived and more coherent, I would embark on the journey toward that purpose. The purpose, you ask? To spread joy and connect with people in doing so. With a name that literally means happiness, I felt compelled to share that very literal calling for as long as I can remember. If you know me personally, you know this to be true. In fact, over and over again throughout my life I have heard sentiments like this: "You are always so happy, smiling, and looking on the bright side. I wish I were like that!"

Now I'm going to tell you something that you've probably heard before, but that I want you to really listen to carefully now: You can be like that. And I have a secret to share with you on how to make it happen (I'll save that for later). Happiness is a choice we make. Every day and in every situation. Choosing joy does not mean that sadness or indifference do not exist. In fact, quite the opposite. It means that in the times when life tells us joy is lost, we look around and seek the sunshine in spite of the storm. I know, it's not always so easy to do. But like anything else, the more your practice, the better you'll get.

Sometimes we need help getting started, though, and inspiration is hard to find. So, that's where I come in!

As you read my stories here in this blog, I hope you find that there is surely some natural joy. And that when there isn't, you hang in there with me while we find it.

Now, are you ready for that secret? I told you it was coming! Here it is: In order to grow your own happiness, you must start to give it away. That's right, let it all go. To your family, your friends, the bird chirping outside your window, the grumpy store clerk, your dog, your boss, your followers... I think you get the idea. Why, though? Why give joy away if we want to keep it for ourselves? Well, that's the very heart of it. By giving your joy away, it will return to you twofold. First, it will be returned by the people who you're giving it away too (but if the grumpy clerk isn't into it, at least it's a great chance to practice finding that sunshine on your own!). Second, and this may be the best part of all: The more seeds you plant in your heart as you give your joy away, the more intrinsic joy you will naturally start to bloom.

So, are you ready to join me?

Before long, I hope you find that you are looking at your life like a kid in front of a bakery case full of so many delicious, happy choices that you just don't know which to choose first! Will you share some with me?

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