JOY IS FOUND IN MEMORIES
Joy is the word prompt for Five Minute Friday. It’s a word I love, because it sounds so happy. I may not always look like I am joyful, but there are many things that bring me gladness and cheer. Joy is found in memories and other activities.
Working in my art journal is always fun and relaxing and helps to relieve tension. It is a source of happiness to me and makes memories, too. Here’s a recent page.
My family and friends bring joy when we spend time together. Just this week I met with three ladies who have been friends for many years. We try to get together at least once a month.
JOY IN MEMORIES OF THE DISTANT PAST
Joy also comes with memories of the past. When I was young there was a painting that hung in my grandparent’s house right above the fireplace mantel. Because it looked so peaceful and serene, I was drawn to it. I wondered what it would be like to see what was around the bend.
When my grandmother died, my mom inherited the picture and it hung in her house for years. Now that my mother is gone I have inherited it. For the longest time it sat on the floor of my bedroom because I couldn’t find a place for it.] Yesterday I did some rearranging of furniture and found the perfect spot.
BOOK COLLECTIONS
Speaking of joy, our collection of books is a source of much enjoyment and memories of reading aloud with my children.
But the greatest joy I have is being in the presence of God and knowing that Jesus has paid my debt. His love for us brought Him to earth and sent Him to the cross. Now He lives again and is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He gives me strength for all that I do. His mercy and grace sustain me, and He is the source of the peace I have even in hard times.
You make known to me the path of life;
you will fill me with joy in your presence,
with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
(Psalm 16:11 NIV)
I’m linking up with #FiveMinuteFriday where you will find a guest post by Andrew Budek-Schmeisser. Daily he fights the pain and sorrow of a terminal cancer, yet has found a way to have joy. His words always bring encouragement and inspiration.
I’m also linking up with: #FreshMarketFriday. #MomentsofHope
Dear Gayl, These are all such great ways to find joy in the midst of the everyday. I’m glad you found a place to hang that special picture passed down through your family. Those kinds of small changes can bring such a spot of light and joy to us! Have a Blessed Weekend! xoxo
Bettie, you are right! Small changes do bring joy! Thanks for stopping by and for your encouragement. Hope you have a great week!
Blessings! xo
Love the post and the pictures, Gayl.
I often don;t look particularly joyful either…but then I like to cloak myself in an air of mystery, and on the inside I’m almost frighteningly joyous.
Thank you, Andrew! I appreciate you taking the time to visit and comment. I love the idea of being frighteningly joyous on the inside! It’s intriguing!
Blessings!
I love that you found a place for your painting–it will bring you many moments of joy as you remember your grandma and mother.
Yes, Anita, it will bring joy as I can see it every day while sitting at the dining room table! Thanks for visiting!
Blessings to you!
Love where you placed the painting, Gayl! Books also bring joy to me and our family! Have a blessed week ahead! Great to hear and read your reflections and pieces of your life you share here!
Pam, thanks for stopping by! I’m glad you enjoy reading my thoughts. Thanks for your encouragement.
Blessings to you!
Great post! I’m in the 4 spot this week.
Thanks, Tara. I’ll try to visit your blog soon!
Blessings to you!
Oh how we need more joy! I am feeling challenged to release more of my family photos and only keep the really good ones. I am happy you found a spot for an important memory booster. We need more of those. Have a blessed Christmas!
Yes, we can always use more joy! Thank you so much for your comments and encouragement. Blessings to you!
Gayl I love that so many are writing about joy this week with Kate. So many different perspectives, and I find such comfort in yours….that the simple and profound truth of a Savior who paid my debt, plain and simple is cause for the greatest joy. Wishing you a very joyful Christmas friend!
Thank you for visiting, Crystal! I’m glad you found comfort here. Many blessings to you and have a wonderful Christmas!