At times we can be the orchestrator of our own discomfort. We choose things for our lives and at times we don't consider the weight those things may have. Protecting your joy is not only about preserving your own happiness. It preserves both your mental and physical health. Life is stressful enough without adding things that create more hardship. That's not self love or care. What may logically be the right thing may not be the most healthy thing for your life. Wisdom is learning your limits and where to step back for your own personal well being.
It's been three years since I started my journey for a more joyful existence. Some things I kept in my life out of obligation even though I knew they were causing me harm. I wanted to be a good person. I wanted to do the right thing. I had no peace. I was never able to rest my body or my thoughts. Rest is necessary for a positive experience and peaceful life. You can't live in chaos and expect peace or joy. You can't heal or be healthy without the ability to regenerate through effective rest.
The absence of negative things, people and situations creates the foundation needed for joy. Doing an honest inventory of what creates peace and what creates despair and hopelessness are very important. When I started this journey this felt like such a selfish thought, however, you must protect yourself and your joy. People thrive and grow in joy.
I have learned that the most important person to me has to be me. I am the first layer or protection and the one who knows me more intimately than anyone else ever can. Protecting my peace must be a priority. I can't care for myself or anyone else when I'm not at my best. I deserve to be my best. You deserve your best you. You deserve JOY.
~Nyx
