Joy

“It’s Okay to Let This Be Good”

I know you’re cautious with joy.

You’ve learned to keep it measured—to enjoy quietly, to celebrate softly, to stay ready in case something shifts.

Joy can feel risky when you’ve known disappointment.

But joy isn’t a setup.
It isn’t naïve.
It isn’t irresponsible.

Joy is a moment of alignment—when your heart recognizes goodness and says yes.

You don’t need to earn it.
You don’t need to justify it.
You don’t need to brace for impact.

Letting joy linger doesn’t tempt fate—it honors the present.

Joy doesn’t erase the hard things you’ve survived. It exists alongside them, reminding you that sorrow didn’t take everything.

Laugh without apology.
Smile without explanation.
Let this goodness land.

You are allowed to enjoy what is right in front of you—even if it’s small, even if it’s fleeting.

Joy doesn’t demand permanence.
It only asks for presence.

Stay with it while it’s here.

Companion Prayer / Reflection

Prayer:
“God, help me receive joy without fear.”

Reflection Prompt:
Where have I been shrinking joy instead of letting it breathe?