We were on the final walk through of our home before purchasing it. Our realtor, Torre, was upstairs looking out the window with me. I was quietly taking it all in when she asked me, “are you happy?” I paused, realizing that she was trying to gauge my satisfaction and that she couldn’t quite read me, so she just asked me. She continued with, “because studies show that clients who are happy with their purchase are happy with their realtor.” I understood at that moment, that her goal this last year was to make me happy. While I appreciate her expertise and knowledge in the real estate world, it’s not her job to make me happy, it’s mine. I responded with, “yes, I’m happy. I would have been happy with any purchase we would have made because I’m going to choose to be happy.” She seemed pleased with that answer.
To be a little more accurate though, I am choosing to have joy. “Happiness is external. It’s based on situations, events, people, places, things, and thoughts.1” “Joy is more consistent and is cultivated internally.2” Happiness is an “outward expression of elation,” but joy is “inward peace and contentment.3” Joy is a stronger, but less common feeling than happiness. It is frequently triggered when feeling spiritually connected to God and by serving others.
I once read, “Joy is the fibre of your Soul. It’s the stuff of your essence. And since you [are eternal] your access to joy never vanishes.4” I know that sounds a little woo-woo, but we are meant to have joy! Think back to Lehi’s parting words to Jacob when he says, “men are that they might have joy.” (2 Nephi 2:25) I think this verse resonates with us because we recognize that truth, but also because we want joy. Because joy comes from within, it is something we have to discover and cultivate; we can do this as we drop the hustle, partake of the Sabbath, serve others, express gratitude, and savor the moment.
Join me in the next few weeks as we explore each concept further.
Wanda
Family Life Education 