I think that when there is so much horror and suffering in the world, and because each of us carry our own little world of pain around with us throughout our lifetime, that anything or anyone which brings us joy and happiness is worth grabbing hold of with both hands and really savouring.
As someone who’s lived a lifetime of struggle involving depression, chronic physical pain, complex trauma and loss, every moment of joy which arises is what makes me feel truly alive. Each brief little moment brings me back home to myself and life’s meaning becomes clear once more. For just that brief period, my pain falls away, my body relaxes, and my mind eases.
It’s finding moments of pure joy and happiness that bring us into the present and create the necessary compassionate strength to withstand our own and the world’s pain.
We can’t do much about the big horrific events of the world but we can take responsibility for our own well-being and joy in life, in whatever form we find that.
Whether it’s time spent with a loved one, a beloved pet, being present in nature, reading for pure pleasure, listening to the music you adore, watching a favourite film, or literally stopping to smell the roses, really relish those moments in the here and now.
For these are like little drops of heaven and truly define what it means to be fully alive.
©Angela Dunning
Image by Lucie Skalova, licensed via Shutterstock.