Does It Bring Joy?

RAK valentines

            A recent trend in decluttering has people considering what objects bring them joy, and reducing or eliminating those things that do not.

            A recent trend in the parish I serve asks a different question: How can *I* bring joy?

Each month, a group of intergenerational folks gather merely for the purpose of bringing joy. The Random Acts of Kindness group, or RAK, finds ways to bring joy to our community. It's run by church volunteers, but is not limited to church people, and demonstrates to all the joy of giving.

            There have been a variety of activities: a stealth library visit to deliver bookmarks and tea bags for patrons... a Remembrance Day venture to the Veterans ward at the local hospital... this month, the creation of valentines: some delivered to people around town who were working that night, some delivered to the care home for the patients and staff to enjoy.

           

A bouquet of kindness (and kisses!) for the care home 

It's a simple exercise, yet is deeply meaningful: for those who are being RAK'd (receiving a random act of kindness) there is joy in the act of receiving. For those who are preparing the RAK, there is joy in knowing that the act will bring joy.

            It's also a time when all ages come together, working together for a common goal. It is a teachable moment for all that the blessing of joy is amplified in both the giving and receiving of kindness.

            In a world that can be cynical and negative, it's a delight to share joy in such simple and random acts, knowing that even the smallest gestures can bring joy. It is a beautiful opportunity to love outwardly, as Jesus has loved us: fully, joyfully, randomly, actively.