Joy, Cymplified!

Joy is often associated with feelings of happiness and with events that are in accordance with our delights. How can we experience joy when faced with difficult times? In my opinion, it is through hope. Under trying circumstances, deep joy comes with the hope that my help, my rescue will come because I trust in God’s promises.

This could be better illustrated with my breastfeeding journey. My “breastfriend” said that it would be easier for me since I am a stay-at-home mom. But, it was (and still is) not without its different challenges. Many, many days I really feel like giving up because of the pain, discouraging words from some people who are close to me, illnesses and sleep challenges. But, knowing and experiencing the benefits of breastfeeding made it a joyful albeit a rocky ride. The rewards from overcoming these disheartening hurdles are satisfying since each day God gives me the strength to continue.

Parenting itself is a joy even though it is sprinkled with hardship and mistakes. But these learning experiences are the ones that cause God’s wisdom to shine through. Seeing my children being helpful and loving to their siblings is evidence that I must be doing something right, with help from the Lord. Joy is experienced with the hope that my little ones’ hearts are touched by my love.

I find joy in my marriage as I revel in my partnership with my husband. Each day, I thank God for bringing us together. Of course, it is not all rosy and we get annoyed at each other for some things we do (or don’t), but these help strengthen our bond and make us better persons that complement each other.

There are more things that bring me joy in each aspect of my life if I look closely with my heart’s eyes. What cymple joys have you realized in your life lately?