This photo makes me chuckle every time I see it. Oh the plans of a perfect family photo, matching outfits and all! Smile everyone! And the rest is history.

The first time I saw this photo I thought to myself “We may hold onto joy, but may not be feeling it”. Every felt that way? I sure have! Joy is a choice. Some days it may not be an easy choice, and we may grit our teeth though it, but it’s always the right choice. Joy can come wrapped in many different packages. It doesn’t always have to be a joy jump! Sometimes the biggest leap of joy is that we stood still in the tough stuff of life. No jumps, no going forward or back, just standing still and trusting God. He is the joy! I have to admit that my “choosing joy” in 2020 has looked completely different than in past years. Its roots are deeper, and growth through it stronger. There have been many “choosing joy” teachable moments in 2020! It can even be a weapon to fight life’s battles! Joy… it is the right choice. Thank you Lord for happiness that doesn’t depend on what is happening. What you see is what you are looking for <3 May you look for great joy today….and find it!