Enthusiasm: How New Work Sparks Joy and Excitement

Have you ever had a sense of enthusiasm before beginning something new and then have it fizzle out because of unforeseen circumstances? Have you ever been reluctant to start something new, but then discover a sense of enthusiasm when you finally jump in? I have experienced both, and I’m sure you have, too.

The word prompt for Day 2 of #Write28days is enthusiasm. Rhymezone defines it as a lively interest, or a feeling of excitement. Some of its synonyms are excitement, eagerness, devotion, delight, diligence, willingness, commitment, dedication, inspiration, and motivation. And those are only a few. There are many more.

BLOGGING AND HOMESTEADING

Back in 2013, I timidly started blogging with the help of my daughter, Jamie. And the more I wrote the more I enjoyed it. As time passed and I switched to WordPress in 2016, my enthusiasm for blogging increased. It is not only a way to share with family, but gives much opportunity for meeting new people. Also, it’s a way to encourage others and give glory to God.

Late that same year we got chickens and the following spring we bought two Nubian goats. We continue to have a few chickens to provide eggs, but the goats are long gone. The year that we had them, we enjoyed their playfulness and the milk they produced was delicious. But it got too much to handle and my enthusiasm waned, so we sold them.

ENTHUSIASM FOR MUSIC – PIANO

When I was a young child I was always attracted to music. My dad even used a wire recording device when I was very young, singing How Much is that Doggie in the Window? I don’t know where that is now. As time passed, I played around on my mom’s piano, and finally, at the age of 9, I began taking lessons.

Through the years I’ve accompanied school choirs, church choirs and soloists. A violinist friend and I also played for some funerals, including my mom’s and her mom’s. We had a such a rapport and complemented each other as we played. It was a blessing to me to be involved in that way. The enthusiasm is there, but I don’t have as much opportunity now to play.

UNEXPECTED ENTHUSIASM AND JOY

For a couple of years now I’ve been following Chronic Joy, a non-profit organization that provides tools and encouragement for chronic illnesses and more. My friend, Bettie Gilbert, had been involved with them and thought that I would find a place there, too. At the time I was not ready and didn’t feel very confident or qualified.

Even when I received an email asking me along with others to submit writings for Cultivate 2021, I didn’t think I could write anything in time. But I didn’t say no. I began praying about it. Later I received an email from Pamela Piquette, Chronic Joy’s Executive Director, suggesting that the deadlines were not set in stone, that they could work with me.

Then at the very end of her email, on a whim, she asked if I’d by any chance be interested in helping with editing. She didn’t hold out much hope, but just tacked that question on anyway. But for me, as I love editing, it was an invitation I couldn’t refuse. She was surprised, because she had no idea I would actually say yes.

A NEW POSITION AND NEW FOUND JOY

So we scheduled a phone call to meet up, get to know each other a little and talk about what was needed. We found that we were definitely kindred spirits and knew we could work together well. At first she was going to give me something easy, and then decided to throw me in the deep end, so to speak. (The funny thing is, that she made that decision when she found out I grew up near the ocean).

It’s interesting, that as soon as I joined the team as a volunteer Content Coordinator, Editor and Writer, ideas began to form for posts I could write for Chronic Joy’s Cultivate 2021. Sometimes the Lord works that way. He waits for us to take a step, before the inspiration and enthusiasm come. We make our plans, but sometimes He has a way of changing them. And His way and timing are always best even if we don’t see it at the time.

ENTHUSIASM FOR LIFE

Life has its ups and downs. Enthusiasm comes and goes. I’ve tried new things, failed at some, succeeded with others, learning new things each step of the way. As a volunteer with Chronic Joy, I have found so much joy and encouragement for myself, too. In meeting a need they had, I find that some of my needs are being met, too.

We only have one life, and I don’t want to let the disappointments get me down and keep me there. With God I am inspired to keep learning new things and using what I have to encourage others and glorify Him.

Teach me your way, Lord, and I will live by your truth. Give me an undivided mind to fear your name. I will praise you with all my heart, Lord my God, and will honor your name forever. For your faithful love for me is great, and you rescue my life from the depths of Sheol.

Psalm 86:11-13

All other posts in this series can be found on my Landing Page. I will update as I write more.

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