My simple joy...to be able to turn a shower on and have soothing hot water run over me.
PosiesandPuppies said
May 18, 2019
Sun is out! Birds are singing! Jerry got his hearing aids! All my JOY today!
Iamhere said
May 18, 2019
We've had clouds and rains almost the entire day! Yet, I am joyful as the water is needed for the grass, flowers, trees, etc. I also needed a physical break from golfing and took advantage of the comfy couch and a rainy afternoon. We have our windows open, and I certainly am enjoying the smell of fresh rain...smells fresh, cleansing and pure to me.
I am moved to complete unconditional joy by bearing witness to the many miracles in recovery. I ended up at a meeting last night and also attended my weekly meeting this morning. With each meeting I attend, where ESH is shared openly and honestly, I feel as if my 'tank' is getting filled up. It warms me to my deepest parts when we stand together at the end of the meeting, hand in hand, closing it all down together filled with hope.
I am grateful that today I can focus on that which is good in my life and no longer dwell on what is broken or 'bad' in my eyes. I do deeply believe that working this program to the best of my ability one day at a time has brought me to a level of inner peace and serenity I never knew was possible!
Happy Saturday MIP family - keep your joy! After all, you worked hard to get it! (((Hugs)))
JerryF said
May 18, 2019
Gracious!! as our local recovering fellowship gets served and supported by our community without asking. I was a bit early to the meeting and when I got there one local was setting up for a family get together and would need parking spaces cause family was going to come. I had one space and offered it to him and he refused with a smile and mahalo so moved to another cabana (we meet in separate open cabanas in view of the ocean and mountains). Others were coming in to celebrate with families and I moved over to an open area where the fellowship decided to set up on the grass. As I did another local guy came over and told me he wouldn't need just one cabana for the hour before his family arrived and to please take it. He knew what we were and do and he refused for the next hour as did his wife and friend. The fellowship came back to the cabana and we had our meeting and me sending the message that we needed to practice gratitude and care and leave the area clean and with a smile.
They were grateful to be of service to us and also supportive with hugs. Joy? I am still feeling it as I type this. I met a newcomer who was grateful and joyful and hopeful at making our Saturday Version of AA at the Bay his home group.
HP was there of course....OF COURSE. ((((HUGS))))
Iamhere said
May 19, 2019
Love the visual of attending a meeting looking out from a cabana towards the ocean and mountains! Brought a smile to my face and to my heart! I did my normal for Sunday and watched Joel Osteen today....often, for me, his message lines up well with what I need as well as our recovery program.
Today's Joel program discussed how a change in attitude can be a change in outcomes. He used the analogy of being bothered by wearing the wrong coat - a heavy coat - when a lighter coat would serve. Removing that coat or changing it out would be much, more comfortable and it all made sense to me!
Summary: Many times, we feel that we are powerless to change our attitude. We think that it is simply our personality to be uptight, bitter, or depressed. But Gods Word says that we can choose to put on a new attitude! In this message, learn how to shift your outlook and begin to approach life with a God-attitude.
So, for me, just for today, my joy comes from a choice to shift my outlook and focus on a good attitude! I am off to a meeting to fill my tank, and humbly learn more! (((Hugs))) - Keep your joy!!
Lyne said
May 19, 2019
I dont feel the joy yet today, but I plan to find some when I go out and walk my dogs, and take in the flowers, trees, birds, chipmunks, etc. I guess the realization that I can make some joy in a day that is starting out yucky, is the good news!
PosiesandPuppies said
May 19, 2019
Simple joy of knowing the rain last night softened up the soil for me to plant today. Yesterday I bought a Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow bush, some more sweetpea seeds, as well as some other plants. Today, despite the rainy, cold weather, I will commune with the soil and get these babies in the ground!
I too loved the imagery of the cabana meeting... open to the ocean... my kind of meeting! LOL! Thanks for sharing that!
El said
May 19, 2019
The quirkiness of weather. Sunny, blue sky with fluffy clouds, thundery downpours, sunny once again. All in the matter of a couple of hours. Joy in being alive to experience it all! Thank you HP.
Lyne said
May 20, 2019
I will have joy this afternoon spending time with my younger brother.
Aloha said
May 20, 2019
Glad you got your hearing back, Jerry
This reminds me of when I got driving glasses. I always thought my eyesight was fine, but I finally went in because I had almost failed an eye exam previously for a driver's license. I was going to be getting a new driver's license and I remembered that near failure from several years prior so I went in and got things taken care of.
When I put on my glasses it's like the whole world is suddenly in HD! I can see small things in the distance that I didn't before. It was definitely amazing. It's pretty astounding how important our senses are, and to have them all functioning correctly, even if it's with aid, is so important.
That said, I'll give thanks and gratitude for my five senses today. All in good functioning order, even if some of those senses need a little external boost.
Iamhere said
May 20, 2019
I have joy in my heart and peace of mind today because some 'life' events have brought chaos near to me and I was able to sit with the God of my understanding, discover my true feelings and then share them kindly, yet firmly. Loving 3 A(s) - Husband and 2 Sons brings about deep sadness at times, which is way better than the anger, resentments and righteous indignation of the past. I can feel the sadness, process the sadness and then take action necessary to continue my journey without blaming, shaming, humiliating - actually with loving kindness.
I spent some quality time with my favorite golf gal pals this morning, and we were gracious enough to let a single player - male - join us! Of course, he was very kind and grateful we let him join in and said we were much more fun that his typical partners. I suppose this may be because we don't take ourselves seriously and truly enjoy the company, the weather, etc. even if the 'game' isn't going as planned/desired.
My son and family got a new puppy yesterday - Woody - a Great Pyrenees - 8 weeks old. Talk about excitement - give me little people + puppy and my heart might just burst....2 of my all-time favorite things! I am hoping to meet Woody tonight or tomorrow and just can't wait!!! We have some intense weather moving into my area as we speak - heading out to tacos soon! I was getting ready to write, "I Love Mondays!" - but who am I kidding - I love most every day and truly am grateful for the life I have. Keep your joy MIP family!
El said
May 20, 2019
My joy is spending time once again with a friend I have had for 30 years. We only meet up twice a year, but it brings joy to my heart to be with someone whom I can pick right back up with like no time has passed. Quality time for sure!
Iamhere said
May 21, 2019
My plan for today was Golf! Clearly the God of my understanding had a different plan as we've had inches and inches and more inches of rain since last evening. Instead, I was blessed to go meet the new puppy @ my son's home, and hang with my favorite little people. My heart is truly full with two of my absolute favorite things - my little people and a new puppy! He's adorable and so are they!
I am truly grateful that I did not exercise my self-will when I first encountered this disease in those I love. I wanted to run, hide, divorce, buy an island - basically physically detach from the chaos and insanity. By embracing recovery instead, I've been able to stay in my marriage and work towards better relationships with my A sons. Things are far, far from perfect and or 'normal' but I've learned in recovery that my normal is not like anyone else's normal.
I have deep joy today in trusting the God of my understanding, and myself to do the next right thing, just for me, just for today. I live each day as if it might be my last, and do all that I can to manage any 'unfinished business' possible. I truly feel right with the world, knowing this could change in a moment, but I'm grateful to be the best me I know to be!
Keep your Joy MIP!!
El said
May 21, 2019
So far my joy today has consisted with a really great F2F meeting. I knew I needed a meeting and today's touched on a couple of my "needy" issues. I am not looking forward to an appointment tomorrow with my mother, so I am soaking in the joy of my meeting and a day to myself. The sun is brilliantly shining with a cool breeze and I am so thankful for all I have and the people in my life.
-- Edited by El on Tuesday 21st of May 2019 02:13:54 PM
Fedora said
May 21, 2019
My joy: the knowledge that my AH's problems are his problems. As much as it pains and stresses me out thinking about ways to fix them (because old habits die very hard), I am on my way to the gym to run. I'm going to spend an hour on ME and bettering myself. I've taken up a couple of sports and for the few minutes of the day I'm sweating, AH's problems take a backseat to my poor cardio conditioning. And that feels GREAT.
JerryF said
May 22, 2019
I find myself in a predicament that has been with me and my Hawaiian Country from before I was born and I am joyful that I have a power greater than even all of this. I am open to my HP for guidance and feel assured it is here.
WOW!! ((((hugs))))
PosiesandPuppies said
May 22, 2019
Today's joy? Finding out I will get a 3-day weekend! Woot!
Iamhere said
May 22, 2019
My joy comes today from the realization that even if I am human, and end up winging 'it', it still works out OK! I've been one who was always a planner and try to make special days special. Today is my AH's birthday and I had no idea until I woke up and looked at the date on my phone! We don't spend tons of money on each other for B-day or X-mas simply because we are both of the mindset that if we want/need, we just get it. So - I was able to run out for steaks, stop and get a card and make a pie and - voila - it was a lovely evening after we both played golf with our friends separately.
I also got to go over and be of service to my new grand-puppy! I stopped by and today was the first day with sunshine since he came to my son's home. We spent some quality time running around the back-yard and him doing his business. What a joy to see the same innocence I see in my little guys in this puppy. He is genuinely curious about everything from leaves to sticks to bugs to wind/breeze! My son's backyard has a flat area and then an incline upwards to the back fence. We ran up the hill and then the first time coming down, the pup lost his footing and rolled down just like a child would! When he came to a stop, he was sprawled out on all 4 legs and ready to go again (and again and again). He did not loose his footing again after the first time - just pure joy and enjoyment.
The fairways on the golf course are like sponges and it's more like mud ball than golf. I made an incredibly bad shot and mud flew up on my legs, pants, shirt, face, sunglasses. I was able to laugh at myself freely with my friends and trust that the God of my understanding has a wicked sense of humor! I hope everyone found some joy in their day - these posts have been lifting for me! (((MIP Family)))
PosiesandPuppies said
May 23, 2019
Thank you, Iamhere for the post on your new grand-puppy! That brought a smile to my face!! Not only b/c it brought back memories of when I owned my own Pyrenees, but it helped me to remember all the good "young dog" things about my current dog, a Boxer. She is living the end of her years, and sometimes I get frustrated with her paralysis & cancer... having to change/put on diapers, the inevitable accidents in the house, and the the overall sadness of her condition.
Your post helped me to put things in perspective, and remember all the wonderful times her and I have had together. I am blessed to have each day with her.
Iamhere said
May 23, 2019
(((Hugs))) to you PnP - I too have a geriatric dog right now! We adopted her as an adult (unknown) age and have had her for 13 years. So far, she's not got any health issues but she's certainly slowing way down. I do view her as saving me - got her after the loss of another dog, and swore off new family members as that dog had died at my feet while waiting for the mobile vet - it was unexpected, heart-breaking and devastating. I had to take some time and remember that I love having a side-kick, rescuing is an act of service and unconditional love. If I am able, why not?
Joy today comes to me from a golf outing without rain drops falling on my head! We got wet yesterday and not today so that's awesome. I played with some lovely gals, and we're fast becoming friends. I am off in a while to softball and we've already locked First Place as nobody can catch our record - we've only lost one game.
Today is National Turtle Day and we found a medium size turtle cruising down the cart path just in front of us! We all stopped to let him get to his destination and enjoyed watching him in his world....he didn't seem to mind us there either - bonus points.
Keep your joy MIP!!
Iamhere said
May 24, 2019
I have joy that so long as I keep doing the next right thing, life goes reasonably well. It's a long weekend and we have no holiday plans - I am grateful! I am headed to my weekend meetings and a bonus outing + meeting as I have a sponsee (AA) celebrating one year tomorrow. She was in jail for her actual day so it's a bit late but still a miracle and a joy to witness.
My youngest is currently 'dry' and living here. He has gotten a promotion at work which means more money and more responsibility. Regular people would be excited, maybe a bit scared --- addictive types can make even 'good news' a problem. I know it's fear-based even if he doesn't, and his fear about this has brought him to a place of lashing out immaturely which includes blaming 'me' for all that's wrong in his world. I am so grateful that I learned how to detach, recognize it's the disease and step away from the outbursts as this has allowed me to keep most of my peace and for him to calm back down a bit sooner than if I entertained or engaged.
As a person in recovery with many I love affected by this disease, I am grateful that I believe that a power great than me can restore me (and them should they work it) to sanity. I pray each day for my family - one by one - with a simple request - they find their path to be happy, joyous and free. It brings me peace and strengthens my relationship with the God of my understanding.
My oldest and his family are taking a week-end vacation to a near-by resort area - the kids are extremely excited. I get to go and play with the new puppy anytime I want to and certainly intend to do so. My son even said I could bring the pup over to socialize with my sweet dog - we'll see if that happens or not. By considering what I'm joyful for each day, I believe that being grateful helps me trust my HP and brings me serenity which settles in my heart, mind and soul. Repeating this each day has gifted me with joy in my heart that really, really is hard to shake and the cycle repeats - I'm grateful for the joy in my heart! Living my life on life's terms one day at a time keeping it as simple as possible works when I work it!
Happy Friday all - hope you've got joy today too!
JerryF said
May 24, 2019
My joy continues to be that I have a life worth living still no matter what. With the grace of this program what other emotion would I be able to feel. (((((AlAnon/Mip)))))
JerryF said
May 25, 2019
I sat and listened in my morning face to face recovery group and reviewed the memories of my own recovery journey and listened to the voices of recovery especially the old timers as they expressed awe and gratitude. I use those words because that is what I was experiencing with all of the miracles I have been afforded while doing what I was suggested by the old timers and my sponsorship thru and from the urging of my Higher Power. Mahalo Nui...Thanks soooo much. ((((hugs))))
Iamhere said
May 25, 2019
Happy Saturday MIP! I went to my morning meeting and we discussed anger and resentments - a topic brought forward by someone who's been around for a long while. We are taught that resentments 'are the number one offender' to those in recovery as they block us from the sunlight of the spirit. I too sat and considered where I am and honestly felt extreme peace in that I rarely get angry any longer. I have learned so many, many tools to keep my peace that it really takes an intentionally malicious act to anger me! 'Life' brings me disappointments, and some sadness at times which I am also tooled to work on and respond to in a healthy manner. Yet anger - not really!!
I am truly full of joy that the long hiker who has been missing in HI for almost 3 weeks was found alive. I heard that story when it happened and also heard how vast the area she went missing in and have had her on my mind since. I do believe in MIRACLES and my heart smiled deeply when I read that she'd been found alive!
My little people are on a mini vacation with their parents and I've been getting photos of their adventures all day! It makes my heart melt to see their care-free, smiling faces enjoying life one moment and one activity at a time. My dog and I took a long walk this morning after some hard, heavy-hitting rain and wind last night. I was grateful to not find any damage to our home or our neighborhood. There was a lightning strike @ the golf course, but no injuries.
When I allow, my HP leads me exactly where I am supposed to be! I am off to a dinner and then the celebration of sobriety for my sponsee! Enjoy the rest of your Saturday MIP family - (((Hugs)))...
hotrod said
May 26, 2019
Went to a whimsical ballet enttiled; "Whipped Cream and enjoyed every minute
PosiesandPuppies said
May 26, 2019
Today's joy actually came last night, but too late to post:
When I cam home last night, my son had turned on the 4 little lanterns I had just hung from my porch ceiling. Every time I see them lit, I smile and that smile reaches right down into my soul... that is JOY.
It is funny how something so simple, bought at the Dollar Tree, could bring me such joy!
Rainy day here in sunny Cali! LOL! I bought a few plants and am going to commune with the soil today, despite the showers!
-- Edited by PosiesandPuppies on Sunday 26th of May 2019 12:20:07 PM
Iamhere said
May 26, 2019
Betty - sounds awesome! PnP - I love the Dollar Tree! You just never know what you will find there....one of my favorite places to cruise through once in a while.
My joy today comes from our recovery programs, plain and simple. I went to an AA meeting this morning and it was all about gratitude and how a choice to be grateful daily for what we have generates serenity and joy! I then went to 'talk it out' with an Al-Anon gal pal who's struggling with some issues and we had a lovely visit. We had some ginger tea (absolutely awesome) and sat inside for a while and then went outside for a while enjoying the greatest gift we all have (for free) - nature.
Days like today give me contentment down to the bottom of my soul simply because being authentic with healthy people is such a great gift. It's so freeing to talk about 'life' without shame, blame, guilt, finger-pointing, drama, etc. Just seeking understanding and looking for lessons is a lovely way to focus on the solutions available. My day reminded me that the God of my understanding really does want us to be happy, joyous and free!
For those interested, Joel Osteen's sermon today was an analogy about seeds, plants and soil quality comparing the soil quality to the company we keep. If we plant seeds in good soil, they will grow well. If we plant in poor soil or rocky soil, the plants will struggle and not grow as well. He suggests we are the seeds/plants and the soil is the company we keep. When we surround ourselves with healthy people, we grow and when we surround ourselves with unhealthy people, we won't. Makes perfect sense to me and having Joel as part of my weekly routine brings me joy!
Happy Sunday all - make it a great day and keep your joy...
Iamhere said
May 27, 2019
On this memorial day, I find joy in living in a country where we have freedoms like no other. Even when the country seems to be struggling, we are free to come/go as desired, be who we need to be, do what we want to do, live where we want to live, vote, etc. I am eternally grateful that so, so many have fought for us to have what we have and many, many more still fight today.
It is in service work that I can best honor all who've given the ultimate sacrifice for me/us and our liberties. Service work also gives me great joy so, today my joy comes from giving back to those who have served in my community and honoring all who gave their life so that mine could be so full and blessed.
Happy Memorial Day MIP family!
Aloha said
May 28, 2019
It's been unseasonably cold and wet in my neck of the woods. I went for a walk yesterday and it was just plain chilly. I walked by a park and saw a bunch of people stubbornly attending a barbeque despite the weather.
But with this weather we had an absolutely beautiful morning today. Still cold, yes, but it had rained previously, and while I was driving into work, I was blessed with the soft light of sunrise shining off of wet green leaves. The clouds were starting to break up and I got glimpses of fluffly white clouds mingling with steely grey ones with patches of brilliant blue sky. I also saw the snow-dusted Rockies shrouded with clouds. The dew was glistening on wet grass, and when I pulled up to my office I was greeted with a beautiful rainbow.
There's beauty in everything if you have the open mind to see it. Thank you, God, for the blessing of this beautiful morning, for the eyes to see it, and the presence of mind to recognize the gift for what it was. :)
Iamhere said
May 28, 2019
Lovely visual Aloha - thanks so for sharing your journey to work! I headed to the golf course and we've also had tons of unseasonably cold and wet conditions. Our temperatures are finally getting warmer so I was able to just wear one layer - what a gift! We are still not allowed to drive the golf carts on the course and hitting that little white ball when it's sitting on a sponge-like surface is a challenge but we manage so we can spend time together, get outdoors and have some fun!
Shortly after I got home, my father called to share that a near/dear friend of the family had passed. This made me sad and we talked for a bit about the lost person and when the call ended, I reminded myself that JOY was my intended theme for the month. I sat in silence, being present with my HP and prayed for the one who passed and all left behind who will mourn. I was amazed that my mood shifted to feeling blessed to have known this person, spent time - laughing, loving, sharing, etc. with this person and came to a place of being OK with what is.
I called my dad back asking how I could be of service and he asked that I put out an email to the family sharing the passing and promising to forward service information when it's available. I am grateful that the God of my understanding is always with me, even when I wonder and plants the 'seeds' in me to help me be of service and just do the next right thing!
I hope everyone has joy in their day today and every day!!
Iamhere said
May 29, 2019
Today, I am joyful because I can be authentic and present! In the past, when my parents were driving across the country for a visit, I would worry that they would judge me, my house-keeping, etc. After all, that is what I grew up with! They are planning to come for a visit in a couple of weeks and I am not full of worry and dread, but am actually excited. This is their last trip home. We don't think my mom will be able to make another if she's still alive so it's kind of bitter sweet!!
I have notified the local family of the upcoming visit and know that everyone will show up where they need to, when they need to - or not. I can only do my best to be a good host for their visit and let others know they are coming. I am grateful that practicing this program helps me to look forward to their visit and any events we gather together for.
I live very close to the tornadoes that hit hard last night. We were up/down, up/down several times taking cover/shelter. I've been in the middle of the country my whole life so tornado warnings and watches are not new to me. However, the activity of last night was not like any other I've witnessed. Debris from the twister travelled more than 50 miles, dropped at the airport and shut the airport down! I feel for all those who were injured and lost possessions, pets, homes, etc. The best news I've heard all day is that there was no loss of life.
Choose joy, then just for today, this one day, keep your joy! It's so, so worth it! (((Hugs)))
PosiesandPuppies said
May 30, 2019
I am glad to hear you are safe, Iamhere!! Good to hear you are in such a good place with your parent's visit! Thank you for posting your joy!
Iamhere said
May 30, 2019
2 more days for my joy journal - today and tomorrow....I am grateful to all who posted their joy and have great joy to be a member here @ MIP as well as a member of Al-Anon FG! Writing about joy each day - sometimes more than once is not something I would have entertained before recovery and would have certainly thought it was quite silly, dumb or a waste of time.
I recently talked in a Sunday meeting about how I have added listening to Joel Osteen each week and how strangely funny it is that I (the rebel without a real cause) would be sitting here in my 50s watching a TV Evangelical each week - not just watching but listening, nodding, embracing and learning!! My joy today comes from just being able to find a place in my life where it's absolutely lovely to be living in my skin, in my life embracing what is as it is.
One of my golf friends lost her son to suicide 3 years ago. She's been avoiding dealing with her grief and hit a wall last night as she is seeing similar patterns (bi-polar + substance abuse) in one of her living sons. They had a wicked, knock down drag out fight last night and she was very shaken and lost today at golf. I am grateful that I and the others present were able to just hug her, hold her. listen to her and offer loving support. This was the first time that she's admitted that she's not grieved and has instead just been stuffing her grief. While I am so very, very sad for her loss, I was able to tell her that living one day at a time, starting each morning with a 'clean slate', we just try to do the next right thing. I have joy as I know I am right where I am supposed to be, and should the opportunity present itself, I can/will be of service.
Happy Thursday all - off to softball shortly - starting a new session after taking first place for Spring! Find your joy and keep your joy, just for today!
Iamhere said
May 31, 2019
I have joy today and peace in my heart simply because the sun is shining. I am grateful that the simple things are what brings me the most pleasure, peace and joy, and that I truly have all that I need. I no longer need to sit and think hard of what I am grateful full - I believe if we change our attitude and outlook, we change ourselves slowly but surely.
My life is far, far, far from perfect yet I would not change a single thing! Be joyful MIP family - it's way more better than the alternative! (((Hugs)))
El said
May 31, 2019
Thank you IAH for starting our May Joy Journal. It has been a pleasure to read the shares and to hear reinforcement on the smallest things that can bring the most joy!
My joy today is for a partially sunny day ( a reprieve from rain). Also, we are going to dinner tonight at my step-daughter's who once proclaimed she had no use for her father or to see him. We have come a long way in the last 7-8 years and I feel joy when we are together and it is not awkward or difficult. I am so thankful for that!
Sun is out! Birds are singing! Jerry got his hearing aids! All my JOY today!
I am moved to complete unconditional joy by bearing witness to the many miracles in recovery. I ended up at a meeting last night and also attended my weekly meeting this morning. With each meeting I attend, where ESH is shared openly and honestly, I feel as if my 'tank' is getting filled up. It warms me to my deepest parts when we stand together at the end of the meeting, hand in hand, closing it all down together filled with hope.
I am grateful that today I can focus on that which is good in my life and no longer dwell on what is broken or 'bad' in my eyes. I do deeply believe that working this program to the best of my ability one day at a time has brought me to a level of inner peace and serenity I never knew was possible!
Happy Saturday MIP family - keep your joy! After all, you worked hard to get it! (((Hugs)))
Gracious!! as our local recovering fellowship gets served and supported by our community without asking. I was a bit early to the meeting and when I got there one local was setting up for a family get together and would need parking spaces cause family was going to come. I had one space and offered it to him and he refused with a smile and mahalo so moved to another cabana (we meet in separate open cabanas in view of the ocean and mountains). Others were coming in to celebrate with families and I moved over to an open area where the fellowship decided to set up on the grass. As I did another local guy came over and told me he wouldn't need just one cabana for the hour before his family arrived and to please take it. He knew what we were and do and he refused for the next hour as did his wife and friend. The fellowship came back to the cabana and we had our meeting and me sending the message that we needed to practice gratitude and care and leave the area clean and with a smile.
They were grateful to be of service to us and also supportive with hugs. Joy? I am still feeling it as I type this. I met a newcomer who was grateful and joyful and hopeful at making our Saturday Version of AA at the Bay his home group.
HP was there of course....OF COURSE. ((((HUGS))))
Today's Joel program discussed how a change in attitude can be a change in outcomes. He used the analogy of being bothered by wearing the wrong coat - a heavy coat - when a lighter coat would serve. Removing that coat or changing it out would be much, more comfortable and it all made sense to me!
For anyone interested, it's called a Fresh New Attitude - sermons-online.org/joel-osteen/joel-osteen-sunday-sermon-may-19-2019
Summary: Many times, we feel that we are powerless to change our attitude. We think that it is simply our personality to be uptight, bitter, or depressed. But Gods Word says that we can choose to put on a new attitude! In this message, learn how to shift your outlook and begin to approach life with a God-attitude.
So, for me, just for today, my joy comes from a choice to shift my outlook and focus on a good attitude! I am off to a meeting to fill my tank, and humbly learn more! (((Hugs))) - Keep your joy!!
I too loved the imagery of the cabana meeting... open to the ocean... my kind of meeting! LOL! Thanks for sharing that!
The quirkiness of weather. Sunny, blue sky with fluffy clouds, thundery downpours, sunny once again. All in the matter of a couple of hours. Joy in being alive to experience it all! Thank you HP.
This reminds me of when I got driving glasses. I always thought my eyesight was fine, but I finally went in because I had almost failed an eye exam previously for a driver's license. I was going to be getting a new driver's license and I remembered that near failure from several years prior so I went in and got things taken care of.
When I put on my glasses it's like the whole world is suddenly in HD! I can see small things in the distance that I didn't before. It was definitely amazing. It's pretty astounding how important our senses are, and to have them all functioning correctly, even if it's with aid, is so important.
That said, I'll give thanks and gratitude for my five senses today. All in good functioning order, even if some of those senses need a little external boost.
I spent some quality time with my favorite golf gal pals this morning, and we were gracious enough to let a single player - male - join us! Of course, he was very kind and grateful we let him join in and said we were much more fun that his typical partners. I suppose this may be because we don't take ourselves seriously and truly enjoy the company, the weather, etc. even if the 'game' isn't going as planned/desired.
My son and family got a new puppy yesterday - Woody - a Great Pyrenees - 8 weeks old. Talk about excitement - give me little people + puppy and my heart might just burst....2 of my all-time favorite things! I am hoping to meet Woody tonight or tomorrow and just can't wait!!! We have some intense weather moving into my area as we speak - heading out to tacos soon! I was getting ready to write, "I Love Mondays!" - but who am I kidding - I love most every day and truly am grateful for the life I have. Keep your joy MIP family!
My joy is spending time once again with a friend I have had for 30 years. We only meet up twice a year, but it brings joy to my heart to be with someone whom I can pick right back up with like no time has passed. Quality time for sure!
I am truly grateful that I did not exercise my self-will when I first encountered this disease in those I love. I wanted to run, hide, divorce, buy an island - basically physically detach from the chaos and insanity. By embracing recovery instead, I've been able to stay in my marriage and work towards better relationships with my A sons. Things are far, far from perfect and or 'normal' but I've learned in recovery that my normal is not like anyone else's normal.
I have deep joy today in trusting the God of my understanding, and myself to do the next right thing, just for me, just for today. I live each day as if it might be my last, and do all that I can to manage any 'unfinished business' possible. I truly feel right with the world, knowing this could change in a moment, but I'm grateful to be the best me I know to be!
Keep your Joy MIP!!
So far my joy today has consisted with a really great F2F meeting. I knew I needed a meeting and today's touched on a couple of my "needy" issues. I am not looking forward to an appointment tomorrow with my mother, so I am soaking in the joy of my meeting and a day to myself. The sun is brilliantly shining with a cool breeze and I am so thankful for all I have and the people in my life.
-- Edited by El on Tuesday 21st of May 2019 02:13:54 PM
I find myself in a predicament that has been with me and my Hawaiian Country from before I was born and I am joyful that I have a power greater than even all of this. I am open to my HP for guidance and feel assured it is here.
WOW!! ((((hugs))))
I also got to go over and be of service to my new grand-puppy! I stopped by and today was the first day with sunshine since he came to my son's home. We spent some quality time running around the back-yard and him doing his business. What a joy to see the same innocence I see in my little guys in this puppy. He is genuinely curious about everything from leaves to sticks to bugs to wind/breeze! My son's backyard has a flat area and then an incline upwards to the back fence. We ran up the hill and then the first time coming down, the pup lost his footing and rolled down just like a child would! When he came to a stop, he was sprawled out on all 4 legs and ready to go again (and again and again). He did not loose his footing again after the first time - just pure joy and enjoyment.
The fairways on the golf course are like sponges and it's more like mud ball than golf. I made an incredibly bad shot and mud flew up on my legs, pants, shirt, face, sunglasses. I was able to laugh at myself freely with my friends and trust that the God of my understanding has a wicked sense of humor! I hope everyone found some joy in their day - these posts have been lifting for me! (((MIP Family)))
Your post helped me to put things in perspective, and remember all the wonderful times her and I have had together. I am blessed to have each day with her.
Joy today comes to me from a golf outing without rain drops falling on my head! We got wet yesterday and not today so that's awesome. I played with some lovely gals, and we're fast becoming friends. I am off in a while to softball and we've already locked First Place as nobody can catch our record - we've only lost one game.
Today is National Turtle Day and we found a medium size turtle cruising down the cart path just in front of us! We all stopped to let him get to his destination and enjoyed watching him in his world....he didn't seem to mind us there either - bonus points.
Keep your joy MIP!!
My youngest is currently 'dry' and living here. He has gotten a promotion at work which means more money and more responsibility. Regular people would be excited, maybe a bit scared --- addictive types can make even 'good news' a problem. I know it's fear-based even if he doesn't, and his fear about this has brought him to a place of lashing out immaturely which includes blaming 'me' for all that's wrong in his world. I am so grateful that I learned how to detach, recognize it's the disease and step away from the outbursts as this has allowed me to keep most of my peace and for him to calm back down a bit sooner than if I entertained or engaged.
As a person in recovery with many I love affected by this disease, I am grateful that I believe that a power great than me can restore me (and them should they work it) to sanity. I pray each day for my family - one by one - with a simple request - they find their path to be happy, joyous and free. It brings me peace and strengthens my relationship with the God of my understanding.
My oldest and his family are taking a week-end vacation to a near-by resort area - the kids are extremely excited. I get to go and play with the new puppy anytime I want to and certainly intend to do so. My son even said I could bring the pup over to socialize with my sweet dog - we'll see if that happens or not. By considering what I'm joyful for each day, I believe that being grateful helps me trust my HP and brings me serenity which settles in my heart, mind and soul. Repeating this each day has gifted me with joy in my heart that really, really is hard to shake and the cycle repeats - I'm grateful for the joy in my heart! Living my life on life's terms one day at a time keeping it as simple as possible works when I work it!
Happy Friday all - hope you've got joy today too!
My joy continues to be that I have a life worth living still no matter what. With the grace of this program what other emotion would I be able to feel. (((((AlAnon/Mip)))))
I sat and listened in my morning face to face recovery group and reviewed the memories of my own recovery journey and listened to the voices of recovery especially the old timers as they expressed awe and gratitude. I use those words because that is what I was experiencing with all of the miracles I have been afforded while doing what I was suggested by the old timers and my sponsorship thru and from the urging of my Higher Power. Mahalo Nui...Thanks soooo much. ((((hugs))))
I am truly full of joy that the long hiker who has been missing in HI for almost 3 weeks was found alive. I heard that story when it happened and also heard how vast the area she went missing in and have had her on my mind since. I do believe in MIRACLES and my heart smiled deeply when I read that she'd been found alive!
My little people are on a mini vacation with their parents and I've been getting photos of their adventures all day! It makes my heart melt to see their care-free, smiling faces enjoying life one moment and one activity at a time. My dog and I took a long walk this morning after some hard, heavy-hitting rain and wind last night. I was grateful to not find any damage to our home or our neighborhood. There was a lightning strike @ the golf course, but no injuries.
When I allow, my HP leads me exactly where I am supposed to be! I am off to a dinner and then the celebration of sobriety for my sponsee! Enjoy the rest of your Saturday MIP family - (((Hugs)))...
Today's joy actually came last night, but too late to post:
When I cam home last night, my son had turned on the 4 little lanterns I had just hung from my porch ceiling. Every time I see them lit, I smile and that smile reaches right down into my soul... that is JOY.
It is funny how something so simple, bought at the Dollar Tree, could bring me such joy!
Rainy day here in sunny Cali! LOL! I bought a few plants and am going to commune with the soil today, despite the showers!
-- Edited by PosiesandPuppies on Sunday 26th of May 2019 12:20:07 PM
My joy today comes from our recovery programs, plain and simple. I went to an AA meeting this morning and it was all about gratitude and how a choice to be grateful daily for what we have generates serenity and joy! I then went to 'talk it out' with an Al-Anon gal pal who's struggling with some issues and we had a lovely visit. We had some ginger tea (absolutely awesome) and sat inside for a while and then went outside for a while enjoying the greatest gift we all have (for free) - nature.
Days like today give me contentment down to the bottom of my soul simply because being authentic with healthy people is such a great gift. It's so freeing to talk about 'life' without shame, blame, guilt, finger-pointing, drama, etc. Just seeking understanding and looking for lessons is a lovely way to focus on the solutions available. My day reminded me that the God of my understanding really does want us to be happy, joyous and free!
For those interested, Joel Osteen's sermon today was an analogy about seeds, plants and soil quality comparing the soil quality to the company we keep. If we plant seeds in good soil, they will grow well. If we plant in poor soil or rocky soil, the plants will struggle and not grow as well. He suggests we are the seeds/plants and the soil is the company we keep. When we surround ourselves with healthy people, we grow and when we surround ourselves with unhealthy people, we won't. Makes perfect sense to me and having Joel as part of my weekly routine brings me joy!
Happy Sunday all - make it a great day and keep your joy...
It is in service work that I can best honor all who've given the ultimate sacrifice for me/us and our liberties. Service work also gives me great joy so, today my joy comes from giving back to those who have served in my community and honoring all who gave their life so that mine could be so full and blessed.
Happy Memorial Day MIP family!
But with this weather we had an absolutely beautiful morning today. Still cold, yes, but it had rained previously, and while I was driving into work, I was blessed with the soft light of sunrise shining off of wet green leaves. The clouds were starting to break up and I got glimpses of fluffly white clouds mingling with steely grey ones with patches of brilliant blue sky. I also saw the snow-dusted Rockies shrouded with clouds. The dew was glistening on wet grass, and when I pulled up to my office I was greeted with a beautiful rainbow.
There's beauty in everything if you have the open mind to see it. Thank you, God, for the blessing of this beautiful morning, for the eyes to see it, and the presence of mind to recognize the gift for what it was. :)
Shortly after I got home, my father called to share that a near/dear friend of the family had passed. This made me sad and we talked for a bit about the lost person and when the call ended, I reminded myself that JOY was my intended theme for the month. I sat in silence, being present with my HP and prayed for the one who passed and all left behind who will mourn. I was amazed that my mood shifted to feeling blessed to have known this person, spent time - laughing, loving, sharing, etc. with this person and came to a place of being OK with what is.
I called my dad back asking how I could be of service and he asked that I put out an email to the family sharing the passing and promising to forward service information when it's available. I am grateful that the God of my understanding is always with me, even when I wonder and plants the 'seeds' in me to help me be of service and just do the next right thing!
I hope everyone has joy in their day today and every day!!
I have notified the local family of the upcoming visit and know that everyone will show up where they need to, when they need to - or not. I can only do my best to be a good host for their visit and let others know they are coming. I am grateful that practicing this program helps me to look forward to their visit and any events we gather together for.
I live very close to the tornadoes that hit hard last night. We were up/down, up/down several times taking cover/shelter. I've been in the middle of the country my whole life so tornado warnings and watches are not new to me. However, the activity of last night was not like any other I've witnessed. Debris from the twister travelled more than 50 miles, dropped at the airport and shut the airport down! I feel for all those who were injured and lost possessions, pets, homes, etc. The best news I've heard all day is that there was no loss of life.
Choose joy, then just for today, this one day, keep your joy! It's so, so worth it! (((Hugs)))
I recently talked in a Sunday meeting about how I have added listening to Joel Osteen each week and how strangely funny it is that I (the rebel without a real cause) would be sitting here in my 50s watching a TV Evangelical each week - not just watching but listening, nodding, embracing and learning!! My joy today comes from just being able to find a place in my life where it's absolutely lovely to be living in my skin, in my life embracing what is as it is.
One of my golf friends lost her son to suicide 3 years ago. She's been avoiding dealing with her grief and hit a wall last night as she is seeing similar patterns (bi-polar + substance abuse) in one of her living sons. They had a wicked, knock down drag out fight last night and she was very shaken and lost today at golf. I am grateful that I and the others present were able to just hug her, hold her. listen to her and offer loving support. This was the first time that she's admitted that she's not grieved and has instead just been stuffing her grief. While I am so very, very sad for her loss, I was able to tell her that living one day at a time, starting each morning with a 'clean slate', we just try to do the next right thing. I have joy as I know I am right where I am supposed to be, and should the opportunity present itself, I can/will be of service.
Happy Thursday all - off to softball shortly - starting a new session after taking first place for Spring! Find your joy and keep your joy, just for today!
My life is far, far, far from perfect yet I would not change a single thing! Be joyful MIP family - it's way more better than the alternative! (((Hugs)))
Thank you IAH for starting our May Joy Journal. It has been a pleasure to read the shares and to hear reinforcement on the smallest things that can bring the most joy!
My joy today is for a partially sunny day ( a reprieve from rain). Also, we are going to dinner tonight at my step-daughter's who once proclaimed she had no use for her father or to see him. We have come a long way in the last 7-8 years and I feel joy when we are together and it is not awkward or difficult. I am so thankful for that!
Happy last day of May MIP family!
Ellen