Is Joy the Simplest Form of Gratitude?

Everyone who lives far from home often longs for the comfort of “ghar ka khana”, the meal prepared lovingly by their mother or a family member. This nostalgia for “maa me hath ka khana”—the food that “mom would make”—provides a poignant illustration of how joy intertwined with gratitude can transcend the physicality of a meal and evoke a deeper emotional connection. When I return home, my mother's familiar presence and the warm greeting of a cup of tea at the gate resonate with a profound sense of belonging, which blossoms into gratitude.

Another instance of lasting joy and appreciation can be found in the smiles of people on the street. A simple act of offering food or balloons to a stranger can light up their countenance. Their happiness, though silent, conveys a message of gratitude that words cannot express. These moments serve as a humbling reminder that the capacity for joy and gratitude is universal and transcends social barriers.

Being Joyful as a Natural Behavior

Joy, though fleeting and often dependent on the individual, is a fundamental human emotion. It is a response to external stimuli that can be influenced by internal perceptions and beliefs. When we introduce our minds to self-made stories and create unrealistic narratives about situations, we often lose the natural state of joy. This can be seen in the common phenomenon where a person's joy over a positive outcome (such as winning a legal case) is overshadowed by the sorrow of the other party's defeat. Conversely, the joy of a healthy person enjoying a sweet can be a source of sorrow for someone with diabetes.

However, true joy and gratitude can be cultivated through a profound understanding of life's occurrences. Trusting in a higher power or a wholehearted belief in destiny can shape our perspective. When we trust in God, we believe that even difficult times are part of a greater plan, and these trials can lead to personal growth and spiritual insight. This belief fosters a sense of unbreakable trust and a deep understanding of the inherent goodness in every circumstance. Therefore, showing gratitude in the face of challenges enables us to experience joy in every moment.

Practical Ways to Express Gratitude and Joy

There are many small gestures and actions we can incorporate into our daily lives to enhance our emotional well-being. For instance, a simple smile to a stranger or a heartfelt thank you to a friend can create a ripple effect of goodwill and joy. By making a conscious effort to practice gratitude, we can transform our mindset and increase our overall happiness. To learn more about fostering a mindset of gratitude and joy, follow us at @backtowellbeing and @wellbeingbyanu.