“Joy is the simplest form of gratitude.” Karl Barth’s words capture the essence of a truth that Elizabeth Scott stumbled upon in an unexpected way, through the innocent exclamation of her three – year – old niece. This discovery not only transformed Scott’s understanding of joy but also offers a delightful and accessible path for all of us to embrace more happiness in our lives.
In the sweltering heat of a Georgia summer in 2019, Scott visited her brother’s family to meet her newborn nephew. During a quiet morning at home, she engaged in a make – believe game called Girl’s Club with her younger niece. As Scott described the fantastical elements of this imaginary place, her niece responded with unbridled enthusiasm, repeatedly exclaiming, “I knew it would be like this!”
The sheer joy radiating from the little girl was infectious. Her eyes widened with wonder, she clapped her hands, and jumped up and down, fully immersed in the magic of the moment. Scott couldn’t help but be struck by her niece’s ability to experience pure, unadulterated joy. The child was acutely aware of what she loved, expected the best, wholeheartedly celebrated when her anticipations were met, and expressed her joy in a completely embodied way.
This encounter made Scott reflect on her own relationship with joy. Despite her meditation practice and yoga, which often brought her a sense of calm, she realized that calm was not the same as the exuberant joy her niece so effortlessly displayed. As adults, we often shield ourselves by expecting the worst, tempering our hopes to avoid potential disappointment. We carry the weight of responsibility, which can dampen our spirits and prevent us from fully embracing joy.
But Scott’s niece reminded her of the innate gift of joy that exists within all of us, especially in childhood. In an ideal, happy childhood, children simply receive the love, play, and magic that surround them. They don’t question whether they deserve good things; they simply revel in the present moment. This was the lesson Scott’s niece unknowingly taught her – to receive the goodness of life with open arms.
Enchanted by this discovery, Scott shared the story with her family and friends. To her delight, they were all charmed by the phrase “I knew it would be like this” and eager to incorporate it into their own lives. Soon, the phrase became a way to celebrate every small and big moment of joy. Whether it was enjoying a homemade pizza with a loved one, watching a sunset with friends, or snuggling on the couch with a pet, the phrase added a touch of magic to these ordinary moments, transforming them into celebrations.
The beauty of this simple phrase lies in its ability to make us more present and mindful. By saying “I knew it would be like this,” we are acknowledging and savoring the moment, giving ourselves permission to fully experience the joy it offers. It works wonders both when we’re alone, allowing us to connect with our own happiness, and when we’re with others, creating a shared sense of celebration.
The next time you find a perfect parking spot, raise a glass at happy hour, or gaze at the night sky, try using this phrase. The first step is to notice these moments of joy, no matter how small they may seem. Be curious about the little things in your life that bring you happiness and welcome them with open arms. By consciously letting in the joy, savoring it, and celebrating it, you can amplify the happiness in your life. Just like a child, you too can experience the magic of joy with this simple yet powerful phrase.编辑
