Deep down in the heart feel good joy

I have discovered that I need joy in my life.  Probably a lot of people need joy in their life and, like me, don’t realize that they need it. 

Several afternoons ago I was sitting on the deck after work, as I try to do weather and time permitting.  It is a peaceful, relaxing time for me and gives the dogs plenty of time to do their exploring and doggie business.  That afternoon there was a nice breeze, the neighborhood was quiet, and the hum of traffic seemed far away.  I was sitting there, lost in thought, when I noticed that the wind was blowing Baylee’s beautiful fur.  Even her ears were pushed back and she looked like she was riding in a convertible with the top down!  As I smiled and chuckled to myself I realized that that was probably the first bit of joy I had had all day; the first real joy, deep down in the heart feel good joy!

And then came the realization: I focus too much on the serious things of life. Work, school, house work, obligations, have to do this and do that all the time.   I need joy in my life, not just the happy moments that are on the surface but that deep down feeling of happiness and completeness.  Joy!

This morning joy came to me in a strange way.  When I went out with the dogs, coffee mug in hand, I noticed that the edge of the deck was wet.  That’s strange, I thought, and what is that noise?  Peering through the semi-darkness I realized that one of the sprinkler zones was running.  Long story short is that the system had malfunctioned during the night, the back yard was soaked, and I couldn’t get the system to shut off.  Thank goodness I have good sprinkler repair folks; as soon as they were open I called and they sent a guy over to shut off the water to the system (it is easy, but I didn’t know how).  I cleaned up and left for work, an hour late, not irritated but just not in the best humor.  For some reason my mind drifted into memories of several things that had happened on my first trip to New England almost three years ago.  It was a good trip and those good memories brought joy flooding into my heart; real joy, with that deep down contented feeling.  I had not been looking for joy, but remembering a pleasant time was the trigger to bring it to me.  It was exactly what I needed to lift my spirit and start the day right.

I have the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart, where?

Down in my heart, down in my heart.

I have the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart,

Down in my heart to stay!