My father put together a treasure hunt. My friends and I followed clues through the yard trying to get to the end. I actually don't even remember what the prize was. The joy of the hunt stuck with me.
When Abigail (our oldest) turned 5 we also had a big-production party. Not really pin-trest worthy, but still fun. Her theme: The pirates who don't do anything. We again had a treasure hunt. Why? I had so much fun when I was 5; and pirates go together well with treasure hunts?
We actually didn't do a treasure hunt again, not in my family growing up or our family now. It was a fun tradition and I wish we had stuck with it.
A little while ago I started a different type of hunt. I began to read Ann Voskamp's book. I tried
to be thankful for what was around me. I felt like I'd found the key to unlock a magic door.
Most of highschool, my marriage and especially when I graduated nursing school I struggled with depression. I prayed about it. I read books. I asked God to make me joyful.
I learned that thankfulness is key. Does it "solve"depression.. no it doesn't. It does help with my attitude. It does help me see the world differently.
I seek joy, and I find it. "Working" for it makes the difference. You see the treasure hunt isn't always about the prize, it is about the delight of the hunt.
Hi Spring, I wanted to check in and let you know that I enjoy reading your blog. Thanks for your vulnerability as well. I know that it isn't always easy, but it does play a big part in healing as well. I too have found thankfullness to be a magic key in some very hard times in my life.
ReplyDeleteMany blessings to you and your family,
Christy
Thanks so much for stopping by :)
DeleteReally appreciate this. Yes, it's often the hunt that informs us as much (if not more) as the prize we are seeking!
ReplyDeleteSo true that when we seek Him, see His hand in our lives, we find joy! Thanks for sharing your story! I need to get back to my gratitude habit !!
ReplyDeleteMe too! I have a little journal but haven't written in it in a while!
DeleteThankfulness makes such a difference!!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this post. "I seek joy, and I find it" - simple but so profound. If we don't seek joy, should we be surprised that we're not finding it?
ReplyDeleteI also love that you shared that it doesn't SOLVE depression, but helps with your/our attitudes...
Thankful for your post (and for Ann Voskamp's book).