On Monday, June 22, 2020, I posted a blog titled “Where is the joy during the crisis?” One reader responded via email. I asked her for permission to post her reply and she said yes.
Response to question: Where is My Joy?
Today I received a survey from the Public Library District by way of the secretary of the board of trustees (Adriance) on which I serve. Interestingly the survey asked questions regarding the pandemic and my comfort level in going out in public.
Several questions asked about being with family, friends, etc., and how comfortable I would be inviting anyone over for a visit.
I rated each question with a checkmark in the “very uncomfortable” box on the survey. I did so because my short-range and long term plan is to preserve, sustain my joy. My joy comes early in the morning when at first light God opens my eyes to a new day. I think of the scripture Psalm 118:24, “I am going to be glad in this day that the Lord had made.”
I cannot steep myself in misery because of the chaos going on. Psalm 68:19 assures “Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden.” I wonder out loud, asking the space that surrounds me, whether the time I have been given is being or going to be used wisely? Am I, can I do anything to let God know that I want to be of service and not lay claim to a selfish self-centered thought waiting to take over. And again I am reminded that I can ” joyfully sing of your lovingkindness in the morning…” Psalm 59:16.
I can shout for joy and pass it on to family and dear friends who may not know the depth of God’s caring.
Additionally, my joy comes from my continuous pursuit and discovery of honesty, and integrity. Nowhere is such more evident than in art. I read, and I know a joy that is almost impossible to express. I listen to music and my being dances with joy. A joy that reaches beyond the sky. A joy straight from God, creator of it all. I go to the ‘virtual’ museums. No crowds, no fear, just me alone yet among the creations of sculpture, oils, the works of women and men!
I am not going out. I don’t wish to as I don’t take lightly the current events in which people are so cavalier about mask-wearing and sanitizing. My joy is in knowing I have the choice. My friends surround me. I have enough books in my small den/reading room, on my 3 Kindles, 1 Nook and cell phone reading apps as well as access to books from Libby, the library app. I can use any one of my computers for walks, and museum visits. I have chats with book club members who live as far away as England and as close as Oregon and California. Not to place last because it is first in my life, my bible studies are of first importance. Studying ancient archaeology and history are the main interest and brings me great joy. My joy? I am keeping it and sharing it when possible and sensible.
It is possible to go out, but most do not care about social distancing. It’s not sensible. My life is in jeopardy as it is. As I write this I am reminded by the scary silence beyond me that two women got shot outside my house in the wee hours of this past Saturday morning. This is nothing new. Someone gets shot in my neighborhood almost every weekend. The difference this weekend is the shootings were seemingly accidental. No shooting is accidental in my neighborhood. I digress. I am unconcerned. Pandemic, racism, makes me what? Angry? No, too much energy. Sad? A little. Frightened? Not when I encourage my self with scripture. God has not given me a spirit of fear as a close family member often says. My heart, my soul, my mind knows joy. That’s some of my stories. Not all of it.
Joy, it comes in the morning when He opens my eyes.
Nope, I am not giving up my joy that may go unseen by others. Trust me, it’s there.
Until next time.
E.L.