Joy to the World

Two people whose lives radiated their inner joy serve as an inspiration to Tami Urcia. How do you share your joy with the world?

You Can't Buy Happiness

In a recent conversation with my oldest son, we were discussing the fact that the things that bring the most happiness in life don’t cost a dime. I gave him the examples of the love between couples and quality family time. He went on to dispute (because that’s just what adolescents do) that these things do in fact cost money. He said that for a guy to take his girlfriend out for coffee, it costs money, or for a family to enjoy an outing, even if their destination doesn’t charge an entrance fee, you still need gas and food.

I conceded that he had a point, but that I was referring to the sentiments and the actual time spent with loved ones, for I truly believe that money doesn’t buy happiness. I’m not sure I had him convinced.  

The following day, I was driving a different route to work due to construction on the main highway, and I noticed a crossing guard. I had seen her before but for some reason she struck me in a particular way that day. Now this area of town was not the best, yet there she stood, waving to each car that passed by with a huge smile on her face.

Most drivers didn’t bother to wave back and just went on their way, but that day I decided to wave back and offer her my own smile. As I passed her, I noticed just how bright her face was, just how sincere her joy. I decided that perhaps she was one of those angels that God places in our path to make our day just a little bit brighter.  

A Saint Who Radiated Joy 

I could definitely say the same about Saint John Paul II. I had the privilege of seeing him in person at two World Youth Days and he radiated that same kind of bright joy. He suffered so much during his lifetime, including the death of his family members, the plague of Communism, his own personal illness toward the end of his life, and so much more, yet he always appeared so full of joy.

His words still ring out in my ears to this day, “Do not be afraid! Do not be afraid!! Do not be afraid!!!” For there is nothing more important than having a relationship with Christ and sharing the Good News with others, and fear has no place there.   

Psalm 124 proclaims, “Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.” No matter how many men rise up against us, no matter how fiercely the raging waters sweep over us, the Lord does not leave us. He rescues us “like a bird from the fowler’s snare.” I’m sure John Paul II was fully aware of this reality, and probably the crossing guard too, and that is what brought them joy. It’s not the absence of problems, but rather the assurance that God is with us through them all. The One who is powerful enough to make heaven and earth is our help.  

With this knowledge, let us strive to be a beacon of joy to our world. We have been offered salvation, a relationship with Almighty God, and an infinity of love. We have been given so much. Let’s share our joy by shining our light to those around us.   

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Copyright 2025 Tami Urcia
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