Joy, Joy and more Joy!
Isn’t it fun to be around joyful dogs? Dogs are the epitome of joy! That is why people like them. We can experience joy in many different ways. I am not necessarily fond of dogs. (Contrary to popular thought, that does not make me a bad person.) I don’t own dogs but my sister does. She asks me to go to her house and let them out on occasion when she is at work. When I arrive and let them out, I can’t get over her dogs’ complete joy. Seeing their joy really lifts my spirits. Does that make me want one? No, not really.
What creates this exuberant joy? For one, they are cooped up for a good portion of the day. They need to be physically active. It’s in their nature. Just like kids. Children are happier and healthier when they get substantial physical activity every day. I would say that is the same for adults as well–ideally.
Even though I don’t have the desire to own dogs, I get enjoyment out of watching dogs get enjoyment. They run around like there is no care in the world. I suppose that is why people own dogs – it gives their life some meaning outside of the day-to-day grind. I just wish that more young people, who are married and of child-bearing years would not substitute dogs for children. Even though dogs are fun to watch running around, children are that much more “multifaceted.” Plus, another benefit—they are part of you. They will carry on after you are gone. There is fascination in that. And, life goes extremely fast!
How does abortion create joy?
OK, I’m going to get political for a bit. It seems to me that the Democratic campaign is focused on joy. I suppose it is OK to be joyful but their is a lot to consider other than joy. More serious things. National security is a big one. Inflation and the economy at large is another thing.
The topic of abortion will play a big part in this current presidential campaign. Does abortion allow those involved more joy? Does ending life create joy so that we can live as we want? We really need to look at the term “reproductive rights” and reflect on this. See what Mother Teresa has to say about abortion.
Fear of having children.
I have questions. What do people fear about having children? Do they fear that children will cost too much or that their “freedom” will be diminished.? Have they not yet traveled to that remote corner of the world so that they can post it on Instagram? Are they hoping to get a promotion at work or a step-up job to fulfill their long sought after dreams? Concerns about climate change? Would they just rather cohabitate without any commitments and own dogs to take place of nurturing a child? Yes, to all, in some instances.
Speaking from one who has traveled a lot and has lived in a foreign country, yes, it was a good experience, but I also had children in my late twenties. The travel and foreign travel are a dream in my memory now but my children, who are now young adults, are part of a lasting joy. Each one of them has been gifted with talents of their own, with dreams and desires of their own. It’s interesting and a kick to watch them and discover who they are.
I held various jobs but never really had a career so I stayed home to raise the children. Did we sacrifice? Yes. Could we go on many family vacations? No. I loved experiencing my children’s upbringing. It was the most rewarding “job.” I wanted to teach them everything I knew. Their smiles and laughter brighten my memories. It truly is something to look forward to in advanced age. I would say we grew with our children and all of their activities. It expanded our horizons instead of limiting them with our own creations. With the way the world is changing it may not be an option to go to work because many jobs will be displaced due to artificial intelligence and the downturn in population growth.
Was it lonely? Sometimes. Was it confining? Sometimes. Would I do it again? Absolutely!
If my husband and I are lucky enough to have grandchildren one day, I will relish that because I hear that is an unsurpassed joy.
Existential Questions
Sure, everyone has their own lives to live, but deep down, what do you really have to fear? But is it really your own life? You must ask yourself these existential questions occasionally. Essentially, God has ordered human nature in the most perfect way only we have to abide by it. The world is full of empty promises. Social media is not fulfilling. Jobs have become less fulfilling also. In the next ten years, the world will change at a level that we won’t recognize. Take some quiet time, alone to reflect on this. It is in our aloneness that we begin to conquer the mountain that is ourselves. You may decide to head down a different path.
I don’t think I will ever get a dog, because they take a lot of maintenance. So do children. I’ve been there and done that. We used to be proud owners of three cats, who are deceased now. They were fun, but they were dirty because they rolled in the dirt outdoors and then came inside. So do children. I don’t need anymore housework. Housework is there with or without children. There is something to be said for pets, but also for children.
Open up your heart to the possibilities.
