The Little Gifts of Joy
“Sometimes the little things in life mean the most.” – Ellen Hopkins
One beautiful Spring day, a lovely surprise showed up in my garden. But I nearly missed it. As is often the case, I was rushing around trying to get things done, pulling a few weeds, watering thirsty flowers after a hot dry week, getting ready to go to a meeting. I thought I saw a flash of red in the bushes. But I was almost too “busy” to experience this little gift of joy – a stunning cardinal hanging out in my bushes.
We live in fast-paced and rather difficult times, and we need moments of joy. Many of us yearn for more serenity and peace in our lives. If we could reduce the complexities of our overly-programmed lives, we might discover we wouldn’t feel so hectic or stressed. And we may experience a kind of tranquility while finding time to do the things that really matter. Perhaps we will even see a gorgeous bird in the bushes.
From time to time, I promise myself I will slow down my life and try to relish nature and the many little gifts of joy in life. But like many of us, I keep my life running at a fairly fast pace, even though I have good intentions to slow down.
Yes, we can make our lives more meaningful by leaving many hassles and pressures behind and by nurturing our souls with quiet time, nature, reading, music. As the summer continues, let us think about the things we might do to make our lives gentler and more enjoyable. And may we open ourselves to the many little gifts of joy in our lives.
Where do you find peace and quiet in your life?
Can you slow down and see abundant little gifts of joy surrounding you?
Joy Carol
