JOY! It is not only found in the epic, mountain-top-moments of life, although the exhilaration derived from exciting, breathtaking experiences certainly will ignite a giddy sense of happiness deep within us. Feeling alive and joyful comes easily where the air is pure and we’re perched on top of the world.

If only we could live there forever!

While it’s an idyllic place, it isn’t realistic. At some point, life interrupts and we find ourselves in a valley. Daily living seizes us and the tantalizing high we felt morphs into boring routine. We face unexpected circumstances that challenge our limits—killjoys! We may even fall into a rut. We battle a range of emotions as our journey carries us on a roller coaster of ups and downs and all around. We wonder what became of the mountain-top joy. We yearn to feel it.

Take heart if you’re in the valley of daily grind. Dear ones, take it from one who knows—at some point the mountain-top-moments will reappear. You can turn the page in your book of life and enter a new chapter. It’s the way of the world.

Meantime, joy is not exclusive to a mountain top moment. Every day we are surrounded by beauty, awaiting discovery. Things to delight us. The wonders of nature, a kind smile from a stranger. Many magical little moments. So, bloom where you’re planted. Rejoice in daily miracles. Seek out small wonders. Be grateful.

And most of all, give. Give yourself to others—be kind and encourage. Show grace, understanding, and love. Shine your light for all to see.

Seek joy in the circumstances. Share that joy with others.

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. —1 Thessalonians 5:16-18