There’s a well-known adage: “The Universe is Perfect.” Meaning that no matter what happens, it’s happening by divine order. I find it fascinating how, for some people, this concept is right on target when everything’s going their way. They meet someone special, their boss gives them a raise, or their doctor gives them a thumbs-up at their annual checkup, and they exclaim, “Hey, the Universe is Perfect!” But if this is so, the Universe must also be perfect when your spouse leaves you, the job promotion goes to someone else, or you’re diagnosed with an illness.
It’s the way you respond to life’s situations – whether perceived good or bad – that is the actual effect of the Universe’s “perfection.” It’s finding the upside in every life experience, good or bad, and knowing each of them is the perfect one for you.
This brings to question the difference between happiness and Joy. Happiness is created from external forces. You find the love of your life; you are happy. You’re hired for your dream job; you are happy. You get a clean bill of health from your doctor; you are happy. The tricky thing about happiness is that as easy as it may come – it can just as easily desert you. The love of your life dumps you; you get fired without cause; you are diagnosed with a serious illness; and KA-BOOM! your happiness disappears. And regardless of what particular external situation you’re unhappy about, your unhappiness morphs, becomes pervasive, and spreads to every area of your life. And now, you aren’t unhappy about a certain situation, you’re just plain unhappy – period! This is what happens when you base your happiness on external things.
Joy, on the other hand, is the internal flame that lights your soul. It is impervious to external situations. To be bulletproof, make sure you operate out of Joy.
Here are three specific ways to create and maintain your Joy:
- Gratitude: Take time to identify all the things that ARE working in your life.
- Service: Make sure to GIVE back and help others.
- Stillness: Meditate or pray to QUIET your mind and calm your energy.
Being joyful is part of your nature, regardless of the situation surrounding you. Joy is inherent to being alive. When you live in a state of Joy, regardless of what happens in your life, your heart stays open and life becomes a never-ending journey full of surprises.