“It is not joy that makes us grateful; it is gratitude that makes us joyful.” – David Steindl-Rast, Benedictine Monk
I worked through 2016 with a focus on gratitude – and though it took some effort, I really feel like I am ending the year with a better understanding of gratitude. This includes gratitude in my everyday life. From the simplest things to the most complex – I feel like gratitude is part of my being now.
Which brings me to 2017 – where do I go from here. I have been contemplating several words to focus on in 2017 and my mind kept circling around joy and then when I got an email on Saturday from Churchmouse Yarn and Tea with the above quote – the word seemed to leap out of the email.
It is so true, gratitude does make me joyful.
It is not complicated, nor does it indicate that I am adopting a Pollyanna-like view of life – but really, a simple joy stemming from gratitude in all things – even the difficult things.
In 2017, I hope you will come along with me as I celebrate finding joy in the journey.
Happy New Year to all of you!
I love that quotation (I always look forward to seeing a note from Churchmouse in my inbox … and that’s a wonderful example of why). Wishing you a joyful new year!
That is a great quote and a great sentiment. In 2016, I’ve tried to have a mantra: “Kindness costs nothing.” I’m hoping to continue to focus on that for 2017, as I think many people in this country are going to need kindness and compassion more than ever.
On my gratitude list for 2016: “friendship with Kat!” and so looking forward to the ‘joy’ of continuing and growing the friendship in 2017!
Happy 2017 !
Cheers~
JOY was on my list too. It will be a great word for the new year!
Joy was my word the first year I did OLW and it still resonates with me. I hope it brings you the same feelings.
Joy IS a journey; not a destination! There is almost always a way to find joy, even if the big picture is not looking good.
I did a meme the other day and it said “At any given moment you have the power to say: this is not how the story is going to end”. That is my new mantra. 🙂
Happy New Year, Kat!
You have given me much that I am grateful for, Kat, and I wish a 2017 filled with much joy in your journey!
From where I sit, you are a person who finds great joy in living. Joy is a perfect word for you and I look forward to watching your joyful journey through 2017.
A great choice Kat. 🙂 there is lots of joy to be found and I wish lots of it for you in the year ahead! xo
Perfect. Just perfect!