#inner joy

[bolaneno]

[random-xpressions]

If there isn't a river flowing within you, then even the rivers of paradise will bring you no joy!

Random Xpressions

[lokavisi]

Rune Meditations - Wunjo

There was no particular guide of this journey. I was in the same garden space I was with Frey during the gebo meditation and the altar table was still there. The sun was shining bright, not a cloud in the sky, and temperature was perfectly comfortable. It as absolutely beautiful. (Upon further reflection, I think this was connecting joy to time in nature, appreciating its beauty.)

Unlike before, there was a large group of people filling most of the space. They were of all different ages and all wore white linen clothing that was rather flowy. Some people lay and sat on the ground in a group, all reading their own books in silence together. Some were running around playing yard games, while some were sat to play games like cards or chess. Some played instruments while others danced around them. Some stood in groups or were sat together at tables, drink in hand, for some conversation - some were raucously laughing while others had more serious discussions of personal or philosophical matters. Everyone in attendance radiated joy and appreciation for one another. Even those having more emotionally difficult conversations had that energy, as if to express thanks for the other person or people that were willing to listen and support them.

After observing all of this, I turned myself around and saw Jormungandr wrapping part of himself around one end of the garden space. Hel and Angrboda walked towards me and hugged me at the same time. As they did, I felt Jormungandr nuzzle my arm and Fenrir joined by bopping his wet nose on the top of my head. Then I felt Sigyn wrap her arms around me, and Vali and Narvi (both small children in this journey) had wrapped their arms around my legs as a hug. After a moment of feeling everyone's embraces around me, they parted. Loki came up to me and raised a hand to gesture towards the party, as if inviting me to officially join it. It wasn't until that moment that I realized I had only been observing the revelry, not actively participating in it.

It felt like he was reminding me that joy is not just something to observe in others, but something to feel for ourselves, and that joy is still best felt and shared with others. Connection is such a significant part of joy. And the variety of activities being done reflects, I think, how we can still express our individuality and fully participate and join a larger collective. We can be our full authentic selves and express our full authentic joy with others, and they can share in that with us. It's that authenticity that really allows us to form meaningful and strong connections with one another.

Now, I was not entirely surprised to see community experiencing joy together. Joy is what wunjo is all about and that energy was absolutely lovely to feel and witness in this journey. The air was so full of love. It was like there was a pure, unadulterated sense of bliss in the air. What did surprise me was was seeing all of Loki's kin. Maybe it was them wearing what I normally see them in and not the white linen everyone else was wearing. I'm not sure, but it probably shouldn't have felt like the surprise that it was when I think about it. Reflecting on it more, it was a reminder that I am a member of that family and can share my joy with them. They want to share in my joy with me. They care. Relating it to my gebo meditation, it was a reminder that they don't just want to hear about or receive my burdens and struggles. They want to hear about and receive my joy, too. The joy I've felt in my connections with them is what makes me want to spend time with and learn from them in the first place. I hope to better center joy in my relationships, with them and others.

[healingthroughvisions]

Inner Child Healing

Inner Child Healing Reclaim joy, restore safety, and remember who you’ve always been What is Inner Child Healing? Inner Child Healing is the sacred practice of reconnecting with the younger parts of yourself—those tender, curious, intuitive versions of you who still live within your energy body. These are the parts that witnessed too much or weren’t held enough. The parts that loved freely before…

Inner Child Healing

[buddhabeings]

The Laughing Buddha

Budai, also known as The Laughing Buddha, is a beloved figure in Buddhism, symbolizing happiness, contentment, and abundance.

Depicted as a jovial and rotund monk, Budai is often portrayed with a big smile, a large belly, and a cloth bag filled with treasures. Budai's appearance is derived from the eccentric Chinese monk, Pu-Tai Hoshang, who lived during the Liang Dynasty.

While not a central figure in Buddhist scriptures, his origins can be traced back from Chan Buddhism and Budai became popularized through folklore and legends, representing the ideals of generosity, kindness, and contentment.

The Laughing Buddha is revered as a symbol of good luck, prosperity, and blessings. Some people believe that rubbing his belly brings good fortune and that he grants wishes to those who show sincerity and compassion.

Contrary to popular belief, Budai's teachings are not recorded extensively. Instead, his presence serves as a reminder to find joy within, cultivate compassion, and appreciate the simple pleasures of life.

The Laughing Buddha's image has transcended cultural boundaries and can be found in various Buddhist traditions, temples, homes, and even as popular decorative items, spreading joy and auspiciousness worldwide.

[veryslowreader]

Inner Joy by Harold H. Bloomfield and Robert B. Kory

Cheers: "Where There's a Will..."

[sketchesinstillness]

It’s okay to take some “me” time 

[kamala-laxman]

The soul's true happiness lies in experiencing the inner joy. Hazrat Inayat Khan