The Joy Dare

Gentle Reader,

The fabulous Ann Voskamp, author of One Thousand Gifts, has thrown down a “Joy Dare” for 2012. Other than soaking myself in the Presence of God and in His Word, I can think of no better tool to battle the pessimism that comes so naturally to me. You see that word, pessimism, and probably think I have something in common with Eeyore. No. Eeyore sees the glass half-empty. I see it as having a crack in the bottom, liquid swirling through, drenching the table and soaking the last clean kitchen towel I have.

Seriously.

So, I am going to take the “Joy Dare.” I’m going to chronicle the things that bring me joy and share them with you, in the hopes that you find your own things to be thankful for. No matter how far along any of us are on the journey, I believe that we can always use a reminder of how richly God has blessed us. Even in the dark. Even in the pain.

Here are the first 10 days:

1. Three things about yourself that you are grateful for – Desire to know God, sense of humor, passion for learning.

2. A gift outside, inside, on a plate – Sunshine, cozy blankets, tacos.

3. Three lines you overheard that were graces – “If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ” (Gal. 1:10b), depression is a complex issue, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free” (Gal. 5:1a).

4. One gift old, new and blue – Blue tubs full of old books for discard. New to me!

5. Something you’re reading, you’re making, you’re seeing – The Encounter, potato soup, Chris’ smiling face.

6. One thing in your bag, your fridge, your heart – Chapstick, rice milk, God’s love.

7. Three graces from people you love – “You are beautiful” (Chris), “How are you today?” (Tauni), “I’m praying for you” (Jen).

8. Light that caught you, reflection that surprised you, shadow that fell lovely – Warm lights of the church sanctuary, my hair looked good!, Chris as he walked me out of the church.

9. Gift in your hand, a gift you walked by, a gift you sat with – Starbucks frappucino, trees that can’t decide what to do in this weather, snuggly Benny.

10. Gift that’s sour, gift that’s sweet, gift that’s just right – ambiguous comments, two compliments regarding my hair, chocolate and peppermint bells in the Bookmobile office.

Let’s look together for the sweet gifts of each day.

Grace and peace,