I've been thinking about the focus of my life, the life I want for my husband, the life I want for my children, and the life I want for my family. The best word that summarizes this goal is joy.
I don't mean hedonism. I don't mean an attitude of party today and not worry for tomorrow. I believe that joy is a long-term pursuit that can be very moral. Pleasure need not be selfish. For me it is living in the moment. Whether I am sewing Christmas PJs for my family or sitting on my back porch having a late dinner with my husband, it is about being fully involved in the moment.
I was raised Mormon. It is not a religion I follow any longer, but there are aspects and teachings that have stuck with me. Most notably in this instance is:
"Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy" (2 Nephi 2:22-25).
Currently, I am reading "eat, pray, love" by Eliabeth Gilbert. I have just finished reading the following:
"Generally speaking, though, Americans have an inability to relax into sheer pleasure. Ours is an entertainment-seeking nation, but not necessarily a pleasure-seeking one."
True.
And, I am just as guilty as any on this point. And, I want that to change. Today.
This journal will be about my family's evolution from busy entertainment to pleasure and joy.
Sit back and enjoy. I believe this should be a good year.
