Receiving and Spreading Joy

Receiving and Spreading Joy

Every year I look forward to getting Emily and Ty Mecham’s Holiday card. Their photos are so clever; they always make me smile. In fact, I absolutely love receiving all the greeting cards that are sent to me. And I love spreading joy with our own greeting cards! It’s fun to go out to the mailbox and see a personal piece of mail peeking out between all the junk mail. It is like getting an early little Christmas gift.

Still, I have to admit, (cringe) there were times, years ago, that I didn’t always feel the joy that these greetings strive to bring. The cards often reflected on their family’s accomplishments during the past year. As I read, I perceived perfection in the photos and perfection in the messages. Even though the greetings were lovingly shared by my family and friends, they sometimes would trigger my vulnerabilities and my depression. I allowed this to shine a spotlight on my shortcomings. When I submitted to feelings of envy, it zapped bits of Holiday joy right out of me.

At Christmas time we are taught that it is better to give than to receive. Yet, I came to understand that when it comes to Holiday greetings, whether in the mail or online, it is important to become a good receiver. I wanted to feel joy for the happiness and success of others and connect with people in a meaningful way.

Showing Appreciation

I am grateful to the French philosopher, Voltaire, who said,
“Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.”

This quote has been a game changer for bringing me comfort and joy! When I am tempted to fall into the jealousy trap, I now give myself compassion for having a natural human emotion, and right away I release those unpleasant feelings by focusing my thoughts on the beauty of appreciation.

There are many ways to appreciate others by spreading joy. I can enjoy how they express their talents, I can feel inspired by their works. Also, I can root for them in their endeavors and be a big fan of them. I can value their efforts. Like with Emily and Ty’s cards, Emily is a floral designer and Ty a professional photographer. I feel honored to receive their cards because it is their way of sharing a little piece of who they are, their artwork, with their family and friends.

To receive joy, the trick for me, is to take time to stop and allow myself to internalize my appreciation and feel the pleasure it offers. It helps when I say a silent prayer of thanksgiving for my loved ones. Sometimes I will let them know how delighted I am for being their friend with a quick text or phone call.

Recently, I called my friend Patty and told her how much I admired her work in the community and how thoughtful of a person I feel that she is. I was surprised to hear her say she doesn’t think she does enough and that my phone call of encouragement helped her to strengthen her resolve in her volunteer work. We had a sweet conversation. I feel like I am a small part of her goodness! This makes me want to be a better person.

Spreading Joy Can Lift Your Spirits

It is amazing how speaking an encouraging word, showing admiration, applauding someone else’s success, or offering support can bring so much happiness to everyone. God smiles down on us when we appreciate each other. The warm and joyful feelings of love this brings is even better than watching a Hallmark movie – well, that’s if you love Hallmark movies. Spreading joy cannot be beat!

While it is natural to have a tendency to compare, if you are feeling unusually empty, discouraged, irritable or self-depreciating during the Holidays and these feelings persist. You may want to consider that depression and anxiety could be the culprit. In this case, seek professional help to receive a diagnosis and a treatment plan. You are not alone. Reach out, there are answers. Joy is there just waiting for you to claim it.

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