Has Anyone Seen Joy?

Sometimes joy seems elusive, like that popular girl in school whom everyone admires but few truly know or a fleeting emotion that we hear about but rarely experience in its full intensity. It’s a feeling we believe to be reserved for special occasions or fortunate individuals, not something we can easily welcome into our everyday lives. 

On the other hand, many of us hold tightly to emotions like fear, grief, anxiety, or shame, as if they are old friends we can’t bear to part with. These emotions, though painful, are familiar and often feel safer than the vulnerability and trust that comes with embracing joy. Fear warns us of potential dangers, grief keeps us connected to what we’ve lost, anxiety gives us the illusion of being prepared for the worst to happen, and shame keeps us in check by reminding us of the person that we no longer want to be. Over time, these emotions can become a part of our identity, shaping how we see ourselves and the world around us. 

However, holding on to these “old friends” can weigh us down, preventing us from truly experiencing joy. They take up space in our hearts, minds and relationships, leaving little room for the lightness, warmth and growth that joy brings. When emotions become “dead weight,” they can make it difficult to move forward, to take risks, or to open ourselves up to new possibilities. It’s as if we’re carrying a heavy backpack filled with stones, making every step more difficult than it needs to be. Understanding this can be empowering because it means we have the potential to unpack that weight, piece by piece. This might involve acknowledging and processing these emotions, finding ways to heal, and gradually letting go of dead things. 

While joy may appear elusive, it’s not out of reach; it requires intentionality and sometimes a willingness to make space for it. This doesn’t mean ignoring or suppressing our more familiar but old emotions; rather, it involves acknowledging their presence, understanding their roots, and gently sending them on their way if they no longer serve us. By doing so, we create space to truly cultivate a relationship with joy. As we gradually make room for joy, we may find that it becomes less elusive and more of a regular companion – enriching our lives in ways we never imagined possible!

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute professional mental health services rendered by a licensed mental health provider.