Letting joy grow in our hearts motivates us to draw strength from an amazing vitality and energy. Joy carries you – even in the most difficult times of worry or trouble. If you have joy in your heart, everything looks different and is seen in a more positive and vibrant light. Joy should become the “captain” of the boat we call “life”.

Today everyone wants to have fun. Wellness programmes and entertainment are the huge money spinners today. However, the lack of real, inner joy is almost tangible in the lives of so many people – even young people. Joy is not the same thing as fun. Joy is something that endures. Fun is short-lived and will always look for stronger stimulants again and again.

Living in a home where there is lots of joy is a huge blessing. An atmosphere of joy releases so much energy, and gives our children lots of memorable experiences, from which they can draw strength.

The foundation of our lasting joy is knowing that Our Lord is present in our home and that our family home is a holy place. In sharing God’s many gifts to us, and through daily gratitude, we find a real peace and joy.