by Caryn Swark

We often use joy as a synonym for happiness. C. S. Lewis, on the other hand, defined these emotions very differently. In his autobiography Surprised by Joy, he points out that joy doesn’t always feel good. In his experience, joy often came as a longing powerful enough to cause physical pain. However, he stressed that he wouldn’t trade this pain for all the happiness in the world.

Understood in this sense, joy is a more intense emotion than mere happiness. Happiness can come from within, but joy always comes from a connection with something beyond ourselves. Happiness can be forced, but joy never invades an unwilling heart. Joy demands risk. It is inextricable from other vulnerable emotions, such as love and trust. To experience one, we must be open to the others. 

Modern culture doesn’t allow much time for joy. We are encouraged to snatch moments of happiness where we can: in a cup of coffee, a magazine, or a new pair of shoes. But joy is capricious; it is unpredictable and will not be summoned at will. It appears in a prison work camp or a Hollywood mansion. Joy is connected to the sublime. When we embrace the world around us, connecting with ourselves and others, we open our hearts to joy. In a world of spiritual starvation, joy waits to be discovered. All it takes is the courage to receive.