For the past four years, life has presented me with both challenges and invaluable lessons as I have learned to navigate life as a widowed mom of an 8-year-old boy. Grief is a lifelong journey, and through the ups and downs, the highs and lows, I’ve come to understand that joy really is a gift from God. Most people believe that joy and happiness are the same. They are not. Happiness is an outward expression. Joy is an inner feeling. Even more, joy is not just an emotion; it’s a state of being.

We all have a choice, and in a world full of pain, I am choosing joy.

As I embark on this journey to choose joy, I find myself contemplating what joy truly means for me this year. I recognize that my interpretation may not be the same as others, but for me, joy is having the desires of my heart. When I think about joy, I envision myself glowing and at peace with where I am in life at the moment. Joy is felt within my soul and connected to my faith. The Bible says, “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10).

Last year for my birthday, my friend gave me a gift with a handwritten affirmation card that read, “I find joy even in the hidden places.” I keep it on my desk as a reminder. Joy can be found during struggle; everything doesn’t have to be perfect.

This year, for me, joy will be a conscious decision to embrace all the good moments that come my way, no matter how small or what they may look like. My joy is not dependent on anyone or anything tangible. It’s also something that no one can take away from me. The foundation of choosing joy lies in the belief that I am worthy of receiving it. It’s about understanding that it is available to anyone who opens their heart to it. And my heart is open.

The energy I exude impacts what I attract into my life. When I created my vision board this year, I selected images that radiated joy. I saw myself in those pictures and visualized what it would feel like to have those experiences. The power of manifestation is a tool that I am ready to use in my pursuit of joy.

So, how do I plan to manifest joy in my life this year?

1. Cultivating Positive Thoughts: The mind is very powerful, and we must be careful with our thoughts and what we read. This year, my daily routine will include journaling and meditation.
2. Being Careful with My Words: This year I am paying close attention to how I speak to myself and about myself. My daily routine will include affirmations such as “I choose Joy” and “I deserve joy.”
3. Practicing Gratitude Daily: Gratitude is a magnet for joy. Each night, I will reflect on the blessings, no matter how small, and write them down in my gratitude journal. Every morning, I will read the list.
4. Engaging in Activities that Bring Joy: Joy can be found in the simple things. This year, I will make a conscious effort to engage in activities that bring me genuine joy—whether it’s watching my favorite movie, booking a trip, or hanging out with my girlfriends.
5. Surrounding Myself with Positivity: Joy is contagious, and the company we keep influences our success. This year, I will prioritize relationships that uplift and inspire. I only want to be in environments that radiate joy.

As a widow and mother navigating the complexities of grief, I’ve learned that joy is a blessing, a strength that sustains through challenges. This year, for me, joy is a conscious decision and a journey to embrace every good moment.

What will you choose this year?