I’ve been practicing what I call The Delight of the Day. Each day I watch for moments that inspire a strong feeling of gratitude and joy within me. I mentally label the strongest such moment The Delight of the Day. The practice encourages what psychologists call “positive scanning.” I’m waiting for good things to happen and, when they do, I notice and celebrate them. The more I understand what brings me joy, the more I can drop into it.
On Sunday, I spoke from the heart in front of 100 people. I talked about my feelings. I talked about my challenges and my attempts at solutions. I was vulnerable.
Afterwards, many people told me they had been feeling the same way. I was reminded of the huge power of an honestly-given “me too.” There is nothing more comforting and energizing than finding strength by being real with each other.. Sharing our stories changes the world.
How can you share your story in the next week?
Here are my Delights for this week:
My family cooperated in giving me some time to prepare for a speaking gig the next day. As an introvert, time alone feeds my soul.
Many “me too” moments after the speaking gig. (See above.)
Discovered John O’Donohue, including Beannacht (“Blessing”). Beautiful language revealing a deep gentle soul!
Warm temperatures!
Saw someone familiar in an unexpected, unfamiliar place – a delightful surprise.
Returned to my writing project. It’s great to reexperience the passion and excitement that draws me to this work.
The snowfall is beautiful on the trees outside. I’m enjoying the interplay between my awestruck “it’s beautiful” voice and the more whiny “but it’s April” response.
May you move toward your joy and find delight in each day.
