Find Joy…Even in the Mess

When you were a kid, did you learn that getting stuff done was the goal of each day?  

That reading is only okay when everything else is done?

That checking off all the boxes on the To Do list elicits high praise?

I learned those lessons well. How about you?

I went on retreat at the beach last week with other professional women, intending to GSD (get s#*! done). Even as others took more time to reflect, walk and rest, I cranked away at my goals. I finally did relax a bit and take time for the R&R – walks on the beach, talking to friends late into the night, sitting on the balcony and watching the sunset. Reflecting.

I asked myself why I do what I do with Spirit & Space, and it comes down to this: I love helping people find more joy in their spaces. Decluttering, restoring order, helping with a move, or just going through one closet…it’s rewarding to see how much better clients feel, how much more peace and calm they experience in their space.

But your space doesn’t have to be perfect to find joy. Whose space is perfect, after all?

This season, look for the joy, even if things are a little messy. Let this lovely poem by Joanna Ashworth be a reminder.

Joy Chose You

Joy does not arrive with a fanfare,
on a red carpet strewn with the flowers of a perfect life.
Joy sneaks in, as you pour a cup of coffee,
watching the sun hit your favourite tree, just right.
And you usher joy away,
because you are not ready for it.
Your house is not as it must be,
for such a distinguished guest.
But joy cares nothing for your messy home,
or your bank-balance,
or your waistline, you see.
Joy is supposed to slither through the cracks of your imperfect life,
that’s how joy works.
You cannot invite her, you can only be ready when she appears.
And hug her with meaning,
because in this very moment,
joy chose you.