The pursuit of happiness is described as an inalienable right, but is it an accessible reality? Church leaders at Jesse Lee Memorial reflected on the meaning of "joy" and created a series of workshop sessions in order to invite and encourage journeys in genuine self awareness. We wondered about an individual's role in making joy happen for him or herself and also considered the impact of circumstances beyond a person's control on experiences and expectations of joy.;Perspectives from philosophers, positive psychologists, theologians, and evolutionary psychologists were added to the "soup" of our experience as we shared our stories in community. We ate together, reflected on ideas, and considered the value of being lost in a celebrated activity. Project participants considered what was meaningful to them, areas where they perceived themselves as having strengths, and the importance of positive relationships. We noted that sometimes there are dark seasons in life and considered the impact of such occasions on our sense of self and of God. As a faith community we wondered about God's intention for human beings and what joy might proclaim about living with personal authenticity and the image of God in us.;The Journey for Joy touched a broad collage of the elements of our lives and pushed us both to reflect deeply on the meaning of our existence and acknowledge that reflection sometimes can be an obstacle to enjoyment. The participants did not all arrive at anything close to the same place, but celebrated the journey as a means to better recognize their own role in the pursuit of joy for themselves and for others. I invite you to read along and make your own journey for joy.
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