J is for Joy

The Quote of the Day that inspired my A to Z Challenge theme -
A Word for the Day that takes on many meanings.


Quote of the Day: A writer lives in awe of words for they can be cruel or kind, and they can change their meanings right in front of you. They pick up flavors and odors like butter in a refrigerator. John Steinbeck


Word of the Day: Joy

Joy is such a beautiful word. The word itself does not have a wide variety of meanings. It's usage can change, and as for comparisons, it is not the same as happiness.  Here's what freedictionary.com has:

n

1. a deep feeling or condition of happiness or contentment

2. something causing such a feeling; a source of happiness

3. an outward show of pleasure or delight; rejoicing

4. Brit informal success; satisfaction I went to the bank for a loan, but got no joy.

vb

1. (intr) to feel joy

2. (tr) Obsolete to make joyful; gladden

Our cousin Angie described the difference between happiness and joy. Happiness is on the surface, like the waves. It has peaks and valleys and is determined by outside forces. Joy is what lies underneath, the steady calm. You can be at a valley in life, yet still feel the deeper contentment of knowing that joy dwells within you and it will soon surface again.

Joy is also the name of my younger sister. When she's performing or teaching, she is a joy to others. She just started blogging this year, and said YES! to the A to Z Blog Challenge. Click on over to her blog, It's a Joy! and say hello. It's a cheerful and inspiration blog.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt:  Where does your joy come from?