I love this: “Today I choose Joy.”

I love it because it is a choice. Today I made a conscious decision to be joyful – and just like that, I lit up and was full of joy. But why? Isn’t something supposed to happen (like the sun coming out?) to bring me joy?

No – I chose joy and suddenly the clouds were brighter and the bird songs were lovelier and the universe conspired to increase the joy – but the joy came first.

I picked the biggest, ripest, loveliest raspberries of the season. I took Abby to the river where she played with another lab and sank delightedly into the warm water.

All I really have to do is look at my dog to know that joy is a choice. She chooses it every minute of every day.

I’m far from perfect at this choice thing, but I’m beginning to get it. I’m beginning to get that we choose how we experience our life. We choose how we meet the challenges that come our way. I could focus on what I don’t have and what I want or need or I can focus on what I have and be grateful. And I am. My gratitude is overflowing.

Joy is not happiness. Happy is going to the fair and winning a giant teddy bear at the ring toss game. Joy is deep and solid and full of light. It suffuses the soul.

I hope I am courageous enough and aware enough to choose joy every day. I don’t know if I’m conscious enough or brave enough to do that. But I want to give it my best shot.