What brings you joy?

Friends, there are times when so much awfulness seems to be occurring in the world, on so many fronts, that it can leave one feeling very discouraged -- or is it just me?

At periods like these, it can be helpful to remember that no matter what may be happening "out there," we always retain the power to create positive change in our immediate communities, in our families, and in ourselves.

We can start by making joy a priority in our own lives. 

Focusing on joy doesn't mean we stop caring about the world.  But by prioritizing joy, I believe we are, in some small way, making the world a happier, more loving, and even more peaceful place.

Every so often, I like to make a list of the things that bring me joy, and make sure I'm doing at least some of them on a regular basis.  Here are a few of the things on my list:

Spending time with those I love.

Developing my talents and sharing them with others.

Meeting new people.

Making time to explore, think, and just "be."

None of these cost money, though if developing your talents means sewing silk taffeta ball gowns, you might need to cough up so dough.  And sometimes meeting your financial responsibilities can leave little time for "making time to just 'be.'"

My larger point is that it's easy to get wrapped up in negativity and bad news and forget that in our own immediate world, where we can have the greatest impact, we can do almost anything we set our mind to. 

I'll be away from blogging till Friday.  This week, think about what truly brings you joy in life.  I think most of us share a love of sewing, so we already have a creative outlet that brings us joy.

One of my inspirations is the late singer Peggy Lee.  Are you familiar with her?  Despite health problems and personal setbacks, she never lost her joy in performing.  Hearing her sing always brings a smile to my face, and I love watching her playful style and sly, sophisticated glamour.  She was a true light.

Here's a bit of Peggy in action!





A great Peggy Lee song.

In closing, friends, what brings you the most joy, and do you remember to do these things?  If not, where do you get stuck -- money, time, courage, support?

Is there anything you love to do that you're not doing?  Perhaps this summer is the time to begin!

Have a joyful week, everybody!