Joy Comes In The Little Things

Since my near death experience I have learned that Joy comes in the little things. I have also learned that it is important to share joy and happiness with others. These gifts are not meant to be held onto selfishly. Before you can share them with others, you must find them within yourself first. In other words, you cannot share something that you do not feel. For me, joy comes in the little things. Joy comes in the quiet moments, such as soaking in the first rays of the dawn, hearing the sweet song of a bird or listening to the gurgling of a stream as it flows over the rocks. These are the things that I notice when I spend a few moments alone with God. Such moments bring peace and harmony to my soul.

When I experience joy, happiness follows and it radiates out of me, like the rays of the sun that shines on others. Spreading joy only requires truly caring about someone else. It is found in a smile, a kind word, a good deed, by showing love and compassion. That is all it takes. Where there is love, one will find joy.

I was sitting outside drinking my coffee and enjoying the early morning sun when I noticed all the beauty around me. I noticed the soft breeze against my skin, the happy singing of the birds and the sweet fragrance of the flowers. It was a time of peace and quiet, a time to sit in the presence of God before I had to start my busy day. Later that morning I had left to run some errands. One of the places on my list was the doctor’s office. While there waiting for some paperwork, I noticed a man standing in line waiting to sign in for his appointment. He had this look that I immediately recognized, although I wasn’t sure why I immediately perceived overwhelming pain in his eyes and brokenness of his spirit. I felt this push to talk to him and heard a voice whisper, “tell him.” So, I asked the man if he was a Vietnam Veteran. He said he was. I then asked him if he had a moment to speak about something important. He nodded and we stepped aside. I began to tell him that most of the military, fire and rescue servicemen today receive a hero’s welcome, especially after the world trade center attack of 9/11. I wanted him to understand he was every bit as much of a Hero to me. I thanked him for fighting and for making so many sacrifices in the service to his country. I told him that I understood his pain, including his confusion why certain things went so badly. I understood that he was just following orders by his commanding officer, he was responding as any scared young man might, confused as to why he was sent to war. I ended by reiterating “You are my hero, thank you so much for what you did for all of us.” At this point tears were streaming down both our faces. He hugged me and said, “Thank you.” He got back in line and I sat down.

When I was ready to leave a little while later, the man was also leaving his appointment. He walked up to me and said, “I wanted to thank you for all that you said to me. I had planned to end my life today, but you changed that for me. I am not going to do that now. I am going to stay now. So, thank you.” He had such a new sparkle in his eyes and a smile on his face that gave me such incredible joy. We hugged each other again. As I was heading toward my car, I heard him whistling a song. Thank God! Whenever I think of him, and I do from time to time, I offer up a prayer of thanksgiving for him and all who have served in conflicts, wars or disasters. They are my heroes, all of them. Whether they were recognized or not, I am recognizing them now and saying “thank you.” Joy does come in the little things and it comes in acts of love towards others. That stranger gave me the most beautiful gift. He gave me joy. For his joy became my joy.

Sharon Milliman
A Song In The Wind, A Near Death Experience