Atypical & Awesome “Oh, Joy!”

Joy is one of my favorite words and I feel it is often misunderstood. While happiness and joy are often used interchangeably, I think there is an important difference. Happiness is fleeting and often dependent on external circumstances. Joy, on the other is a more constant internal peace and contentment regardless of external circumstances. The strength of joy is what aides us in surviving incredible challenges and often, distress. We can call it different names but I know where my joy comes from. I let NOTHING touch that joy- I worked too hard to get it and I fiercely protect it. I wish you, dear reader, happiness but even moreso- I wish you joy.