My joy is returning! In one morning, I browsed the shelves of the public library, wandered around a favorite bookstore until I found four books I just had to have, bought local fresh produce at the downtown farmers’ market, “traveled the world” in our local fair-trade craft store, and enjoyed a tall-decaf-skinny-chestnut-praline latte. So many ordinary things that bring such joy!
Before I ventured out for my morning activities, I had read excerpts from an address of Pope Francis to the people of Brazil in July 2013. (cited in Care for Creation: A Call for Ecological Conversion, Orbis Books, 2016) Speaking directly to the young people in the audience, Pope Francis said:
“Never yield to discouragement, do not lose trust, do not allow your hope to be extinguished. Situations can change, people can change. Be the first to seek to bring good, do not grow accustomed to evil, but defeat it with good.”
Q. What ordinary everyday actions bring you joy?
Q. How do you fight against discouragement?
If I’m discouraged I speak to good Christian friends and they always make me feel better. I also feel great when I read,do 15 min of exercise, have good coffee, go to my bible study,go to my library, spend time with family,see God’s beautiful sky and earth. I could go on.Almost forgot. See your beautiful photograph and read your blogs. Love Elaine
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Amazing similarities in our lists, Elaine! Thank you for sharing yours. I am glad that you find joy in this blog. You encourage me to continue writing. Happy Birthday!
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