It doesn't always feel this way, but joy is a state of being that you can choose.

Today's podcast will focus on one of our intentions for 2024, which is to live joyfully present.

When hearing poetry, nothing is supposed to happen. Instead, allow the words to flow through you.

Today's podcast  will include a poem from David Steindl-Rast's book "99 Blessings."

There is always something, even in times of difficulty, that we can be grateful for. But when we focus on the goodness of our lives, we actually create more of it.

Today's podcast will focus on being grateful. 

Through mindfulness and non-judgmental learning, we become aware of the choices we make through every single moment. Once we become aware of those moments, we can choose to let go of anxiety and overcome reactivity.

Today's podcast will focus on releasing ourselves of reactivity and anxiety. 

In times of difficulty and challenge, the resilience that lies within each of us is always there. That resilience is part of who we really are. We are resilient not because we lack challenges, but often because of them.

Today's podcast will focus on resilience in times of difficulty. 

Especially in times of uncertainty or difficulties, it's important that we bring our awareness to expanding hopefulness.

We hear a lot of the importance of being there for friends and family, being there for those who are struggling. Of course, true presence is more than just being there.

Today's podcast will focus on expanding our ability to be there for others.

As the Benedictine monk David Steindl-Rast said "in thanksgiving to life, I pledge to overcome fear by seeing in what I might otherwise fear, the opportunity to cultivate courageous trust in life and so to lay the foundation for a peaceful future."

Today's podcast will focus on Trusting Life.

While it may not feel like it with all of the difficulties swirling around us, joy is a feeling that you can choose.

Today's podcast will focus on trusting in the universe and being joyfully present. 

While we all have challenges and difficulties, and these are difficult times, we need to remember that we have control over our inner peace. Inner peace begins the moment you choose not to let another person or external event to control your emotions.