Friends, wonderful friends! They uplift, console, and understand you. They add joy to your life and give you confidence to take the risk of making your dreams come true. They offer a softer place to land when life throws you unexpected curve balls. When you leave the company of such friends you feel full and content. Your soul has been nourished, even if it was just a quick hour and a hot cup of coffee. My day was once made lighter and more joyful after an unexpected hug from a friend in the parking lot of my daughter's daycare. It was one of those warm embraces that said "I am here with you at all times, keep going."
Who shines their light on your life? Who do you call when you have exciting news to share? Who are your most cherished friends?
My favorite inspirational speaker Dr. Wayne Dyer says, "Choose to be in close proximity to people who are empowering, who appeal to your sense of connection to intention, who see the greatness in you, who feel connected to God, and who live a life that gives evidence that spirit has found celebration through them."
Go out and LAUGH
Sit together and TELL STORIES
Eat dinner and SUPPORT EACH OTHER
Sip tea and CRY (let it all out, you are in good company)
Go for a walk and DREAM BIG
Talk on the phone and GET INSPIRED
Hug for an hour and BE HELD
Share your accomplishments and SHARE THE JOY
It's all in the company you keep.
Julie McGrath founded The Joy Source to encourage women to live a more joyful and purposeful life, discover and honor the truths within them and most importantly, live each day with a strong sense of purpose. She organizes events such as ‘A Women’s Day of Inspiration and Joy’ held in the fall, and a weekend retreat in March, and just published the first edition of her online magazine, The Joy Ride. In addition to these events, Ms. McGrath conducts CEU approved workshops on Job Stress and Burnout: Get Out or Go Back In, as well as shorter seminars on self care for mental health providers. More information can be found at http://www.thejoysource.com.