Surprised by Joy – Go Bananas
It had been an unusually long and busy day for my daughter Natalie. She and her two little girls Hailey and Margo had just hurried home from running errands, so she could fix dinner for her family along with making extra for a sick neighbor’s family. With all the craziness of the day the girls were tired and becoming a little whiny. Natalie was feeling overwhelmed and stressed when Johnny, her husband, called saying he would be late getting home from work. Natalie, exhausted and pressured for time, was now ready to cry. Holding back tears, she began slicing a banana for a fruit salad she was preparing. Looking down, a banana slice caught her eye, and it was smiling up at her. She began laughing! Her laughter melted away her stress and frustration and brought joy into her day.
Have you ever been surprised by joy? What unexpected thing has happened to you, to bring on a smile? Share your story with us! Go bananas!
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What a wonderful example of attitude change. I love to know that I can turn tough times around!
Thanks Denise, you are such a great example to me of finding joy in life. Thank you!
I love this! Every time I get on my bicycle and the wind starts blowing against my face, I am always surprised at the burst of joy I get. There’s something about being outside on a pretty trail, watching the world speed by that has brought a thrill to my heart ever since I was a young girl.
Heather thank you for your story of joy with the wind on your face. I want to go out and ride my bike now!
There is nothing like laughter that can change the way we feel so quickly. Good for Natalie for even noticing the banana and having the ability to embrace the humor in it. This reminds how important it is to laugh every day.
Yes, I love the fact that Natalie even noticed the banana. Laughter is important. Thanks for your comment.
That’s a great story. It’s amazing how something simple can change our whole perspective on something.
Yes, it is so true. Thanks for your comment.
Hi Elaine!
What a simple but powerful reminder that we can find JOY is such small places. I’m impressed that Natalie had the where with all to notice the banana face. I’m afraid I would have missed it on a busy stressful day like she had. Three cheers for her that she was present enough to see the Joy when it showed up so unexpectedly. I just threw 3 bananas in the freezer today and didn’t notice any of them smiling at me. I need to be more like Natalie.
I love your work. Thank you for your example and hard earned wisdom. Please know how much it has mattered to me.
Sharilyn
Thank you for your kind words. I forwarded your comment to Natalie. She was touched. I think you’re right sometimes just being more aware of what is around us will bring joy. Thanks
Elaine
Hi Elaine,
I’m not sure I’ll see slicing bananas in the same way again. I can’t wait to watch for a smiley face slice!
Yes I agree!