I am linking up with Lisa-Jo Baker today on Five Minute Friday. Take the prompt, write for five minutes flat. Link up with a community of fellow writers and experience the joy of sharing!
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Today’s prompt JOY is one of my favorite words.
In this case I like the English language because it offers a variety of meanings for this sentiment.
Unlike German (where you only have one word ‘Freude’) in English you have joy and happiness.
And there’s a difference between these two, I believe.
Happiness might refer to this superficial excitement over fresh flowers, a present, or a quick smile for a friend. But as quickly as it comes over us it can also be gone. As quickly as our circumstances can bring happiness, they can also bring unhappiness. Bad weather, a sad phone call, disappointment.
Happiness often seems to be based on what happens.
Joy, on the other hand, goes much deeper.
It is independent from what happens around us.
It is planted deep inside of us, bringing forth light in the darkest hours, strength in weakness and rejoicing in the midst of tears.
Joy is a fruit of the holy spirit, planted inside of us and growing the more we take care of it.
When it is firmly rooted in our hearts no circumstances in the world can steal our joy.
The question is: What are we going for?
Do we strive for quick happiness, these superficial waves that come and go as quickly as we draw a breath?
Or do we take some time to seek joy, nurture it and experience its fruits especially in times when we need it the most?
thisiskatha.com 
Yes, perfect descriptions. Joy needs to be nurtured… hmm, definitely worth thinking about.
That is great to hear, Laura! Thanks for stopping by!
oh how true on the two different meanings!!! LOVE the words you brought today! Thank you for sharing. I can honestly say at this point in my life, I truly have joy!!! AMEN