Happiness vs Joy

Last week, Aggie wanted to know our happy thoughts.

Honestly, this was kinda challenging to me. I was going through some rough times personally, hence the late post on the subject. But I suppose it is precisely during difficult times that we need to list the things to be thankful for. In fact, during my prayers, I sense that I am being challenged to continue to have a joyful heart despite difficult circumstances.
Being happy is mostly dependent on emotions and being in a good state of being. Joy, on the other hand, is deeper. Even when you are in a situation that is saddening, you can remain joyful because you are hopeful and are secure that your life is in God's tender hands.

So, onto the things that make me happy:
1. spending time with family, whether it's a quick trip to the mall or a vacation several days long
2. digital scrapbooking
3. losing weight
4. when DD3 runs to me to greet me with a kiss and a huge hug when I get back home from an errand
5. when DH is in a good mood
6. swimming with the kids
7. when total strangers come up to us and say we have a lovely family
8. watching my kids play and listening in on their conversations
9. internet
10. a clean house

3 comments:

DigiscrapMom | Sunday, July 20, 2008 6:06:00 AM

I totally agree with you about the difference between happy and joy!

I hope you stay happy and feel that different kind of joy all the time.

Enjoy the rest of the weekend!

Tylertopia | Monday, July 21, 2008 10:39:00 AM

Sorry to read that you have been going through some rough times. I hope things will be looking up for you soon. I love this list of yours...a nice reminder of happy things. :o)May you be abundantly blessed today.

Berto and Kwala | Monday, July 28, 2008 10:49:00 PM

thinking about losing weight makes me happy too... if only it actually comes true...