Finding Joy

Where do you find your gratitude?

Where do you you find your joy?

It’s sad to say, but I think far too many people these days have stopped looking for gratitude and personal joy. Or they believe that joy comes from living in a big house or from driving a fancy car or from having a huge amount of money..

I'm old enough to realize that none of those things is correct, at least not for me. I have often said that if I won the lottery (which I never will because I don't play), I might by myself a new car, but I would keep the house I have owned for more than 12 years. I have m ore than enough space in the house, I really like its design, and I have wonderful views of the mountains.

No, I would help my adult daughter and her infant son with expenses. I would buy her a better car. And I would make some big donations to my favorite charities. I might spring for first-class seats on my flights to other countries. And that would be it.

My joy comes from helping others. One of our local television stations has featured a couple of local charities during its evening news this year. First was the food bank that serves the entire state. Last night's news featured a student clothing bank that provided shoes and clothing to needy students. The director noted that one thing they really need is new underwear for boys and girls of all ages. The group's web site lists items in great demand, including toothpaste and shampoo.

Imagine not having enough underwear -- or any underwear at all. That is a basic necessity for people in this country. I mean, I put on a fresh pair of underwear every morning after I get up, or every evening after I shower. I do this without thinking about it. It's part of my hygiene routine. The same is true of brushing my teeth.

While looking at the organization's Amazon wish list, I had tears in my eyes. Such basics as deodorant, shampoo, combs and other essentials are in great need. Clothing of all kinds -- sweatshirts, socks, jeans among others -- are on the list. And of course, there is a real need for winter clothing.

Winter is a dark season for me. I hate the cold. I hate the short hours of sunlight. And I really hate knowing that our very wealthy country has so many people in dire need. 

People are struggling. And it's not just people in poor countries. People in our country are struggling to buy groceries, to get and pay for medical care, to heat their homes during this cold winter. There is no joy there. It saddens me, and it makes me angry.

I so so grateful for the organizations and individuals who are stepping up to make a difference. Our local ABC television station holds and annual coat drive to collect new or gently used winter coats for students. It also takes donations from viewers and purchases as many new coats as possible. Our local NBC affiliate features non-profit organizations such as the clothing bank and the food bank to raise awareness and funds.

My joy comes from knowing there are organizations working to help those in need. It comes from being able to help in some small way by donating money and food. It comes from helping to spread awareness. Still, it's hard to find joy when so many of my fellow residents are struggling.

I also find joy in my dogs, in my photography and in being able to travel. I love to read, and that also brings me joy.

So stop waiting to be happy. Take pleasure in the little things: a beautiful sunrise or sunset, a warm home, a nice meal on the table, lunch with a friend. Surround yourself with positive people. Distance yourself with those who want to bring you down and who have nothing but negative energy. Take care of your body and your mind.

Don't wait for joy to find you. Go our and find your own joy. You don't have to have a lot of money. You can find joy in helping others by visiting a lonely person. Bake cookies for a neighbor. Give someone a ride to the grocery store. Rake someone's leaves. 

Find whatever makes you happy, and go after it!