Today is Slice of Life Tuesday – the weekly writing challenge hosted at “Two Writing Teachers”
I was checking blog posts from favourite bloggers tonight when I came across Joanne Goddard’s of “A Cup of Jo“.
She asked the question: What makes you come alive?
It really stopped me short and made me think.
She included Mary Oliver’s famous words (words really to live by!)
Instructions for living a life.
Pay attention.
Be astonished.
Tell about it.
SOL is just that – telling about something we have paid attention to.
Joanne’s shared a list of things that brought her joy and encouraged us to do the same – to list the things that make us feel, or come alive.
Here’s my list:
*Hearing my granddaughter laugh
Seeing her discover something new
Hugs and kisses
Snuggling on the couch
Talking with my husband, kids and grandkids
Looking at pictures of family & friends on Instagram & Facebook
Making art
Walking along the beach with water lapping my feet, looking for shells
Playing cards with friends
Getting lost in a good book
Hearing my favourite music
Being caught up ion a mesmerizing stage play
Beautiful flowers
Seeing a beautiful sunset, in an array of colours
There are so many things to notice, relish, to enjoy – that fill you with joy. You just have to keep your eyes open!
Beverley A Baird 
“Getting lost in a good book” could have been on my list as well! You have a sunset, I should have added sunrise on mine. Isn’t it great to think about all the small–and big too–things that bring us joy! Makes me feel grateful.
It is those small things that add up to so much joy for sure
So many times people look for big ticket items that they think will make them happy when truly all it takes is opening your eyes and living in the moment. Great lust, Bev.
Thanks Bob. And too many waste time waiting instead of savouring all the little things!
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Thanks! Loved your post!
Great list! So many of these sound like my list! Your last line is perfect!
I hadn’t heard about the three pillars of what makes you come alive; pay attention, be astonished, tell about it. How fitting is this quote in our daily interactions with our family, friends, and students. It reminds me of Brene Brown’s TGIF’s. I think I will try this same list and maybe write a TGIF. Your post inspired me!
Thank Therapi. I just discovered Brown’s TGIF – it’s a wonderful way to show gratitude.
Not only did Jaana shed light on her joy but you too, Bev. My joy quotient was just elevated. Thank you for talking about your granddaughter. I am missing mine so much that I think I will share your joy tonight.
They certainly do bring us a lot of joy!