Happiness has a liveliness to it. When we’re really happy, energy abounds and we often find ourselves expressing that emotion – perhaps dancing or clapping or bouncing around. “Jumping with joy” is a common expression. As we spiral up from happiness on the emotional scale, we get closer to feelings that become tinctured with aspects of the mind… appreciation, empathy, compassion, wonder, and joy. In particular, joy engages the observer mind and then moves beyond it… we can sense the entirety of our being merging with the perfection of the moment as joy takes over. Boundaries dissolve and we feel as if we are one with the loveliness that is unfolding. Joy is expansive and immersive, not unlike the mind.
Meditation leads us toward our innermost self and provides the steadiness necessary for us to linger there. From this space, contentment has the opportunity to arise, as well as compassion and kindness toward oneself and others. This can lift us up. We may experience spaciousness. Joyful awareness resides here. Oh, to be human in those special moments that contain joy!
Happy meditating.
