Holding onto Joy

Principles

Think back to the last time your child filled your heart with love and awe. Perhaps it was a burst of laughter, a peaceful mid-dream smile, or a question wise beyond their years. It’s easy to get swept up in routines and lose sight of the small joys that make parenting meaningful. While we can’t always control what life throws our way, gratitude can transform how you experience both the challenges and the beauty of raising a child.

To bring this mindset into your daily life, try these simple practices:

• When you find yourself with a few free moments, pause before you instinctually start to scroll and instead, reflect on what you’re looking forward to, big or small.
• Take a few deep breaths to center yourself, then visualize future moments you’re excited about. It could be your child’s next milestone, a family outing, or a peaceful cup of tea.
• Write down one thing you’re grateful for today and one thing you’re grateful for in the future.
• When you notice a spark of joy, pause and let yourself feel it fully, without rushing on to the next task.
  

By holding onto the little joys and looking forward with an open heart, you’re not just surviving. You’re creating a life filled with meaning and connection.

Perspectives

American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner, Mary Oliver, entreats us to savor joy:

If you suddenly and unexpectedly feel joy, don’t hesitate. Give in to it...whatever it is, don’t be afraid of its plenty. Joy is not made to be a crumb.

from Swan: Poems and Prose Poems

Esau McCaulley, New York Times writer, reminds us how:

Parenting is always an exercise in hope, a gift given to a future we cannot see to the end.

from One Thing Parents Can Control

Pause for Reflection

How will you find time to appreciate the little joys of parenthood this weekend?

Take a moment for yourself with the Moment for Parents app.