The Power of Simple Joy

Sometimes, I think we make things far more complicated than they need to be. All those years teaching, trying to unlock complex literary themes for children who just wanted to draw pictures of horses, and I’m realizing now that sometimes a simple smile is more powerful than a profound revelation. I read something the other day, an article tucked into one of those online newsletters Jerry likes, and it made me pause. Apparently, researchers have discovered that feeling *happy* can be more effective than feeling *awe* when it comes to changing how we see each other.

It’s a peculiar thing, isn’t it? We've always held awe in such high regard. Awe brings us to our knees, makes us contemplate the vastness of the universe, the delicate beauty of a wildflower. We think, "If I can just *show* them the majesty of the Grand Canyon, surely they'll understand." But this research suggests that a moment of genuine joy, a shared laugh, might actually soften hearts and break down walls a bit better than any breathtaking vista.

I remember when Eli started school. The picture Marcus sent, that little boy standing by his classroom door, looking utterly overwhelmed…it tugged at my heart. I wanted to rush right there, to fill the room with balloons and cookies and all things cheerful. But Kevin, always the pragmatist, said, "Just a phone call, Mom. Just let him know you're thinking of him." A simple connection, a little bit of happiness delivered over the phone. And it was enough. It seemed to be exactly what he needed.

We spent a week in Ponte Vedra recently, helping Kevin and Adrienne settle in after Lily’s arrival. It was a whirlwind of meals and laundry and soothing a little one who missed her own bed. I cooked enough food to feed a small army, and Jerry, bless his heart, became Lily’s official couch companion. He just sat there, quietly holding her, and she’d drift off to sleep against his shoulder. Watching them together, that simple act of comfort and affection, felt more meaningful than any grand pronouncements of love.

There's something about witnessing everyday acts of kindness and joy that truly nourishes the soul. Those moments aren’t earth-shattering, they don't leave you speechless with wonder, but they do leave you feeling lighter, more connected. They remind you that we’re all just trying to navigate this life, one small step at a time.

I’ve always believed that true inclusivity doesn’t come from lecturing people about their biases; it comes from creating a space where everyone feels valued, where everyone feels seen. And how do you create that space? Not with elaborate displays of brilliance, but with consistent acts of kindness, a willingness to listen, and a genuine effort to bring a little sunshine into someone’s day.

Jerry and I were driving back from Ponte Vedra through Georgia, and the foliage was just spectacular – reds and golds blazing across the hillsides. He turned to me and said, "You know, you’re finally enjoying retirement." I just smiled and told him I thought he’d noticed a while ago. It wasn't a grand revelation, but it was a quiet moment of contentment, a shared understanding of a life well-lived.

Perhaps that's the lesson here. Maybe we shouldn't be striving for awe so much. Maybe we should be cultivating happiness, extending grace, and simply offering a hand to those who need it. After all, a simple smile can move mountains, or at least help a little boy feel a little less lost on his first day of school.