There is no one way to cultivate a practice. I hesitate to dissect, analyze or take too deep a dive into the attributes of a practice because when we tear something apart looking to see what “it” is, we may end up understanding more about the parts and less about the whole.
I didn’t even realize I was beginning a play practice when I first began. What I was doing back in the early part of this century was accepting and creating invitations to play without realizing I was making a conscious choice to do so. It wasn’t intentional. And then one day, years later, I was asked how I accomplished something, and I realized after-the-fact that I forgot to mention the most important thing and that was play. On that day, my play practice – already born – came to light and became more purposeful.
I have a story practice. It’s served me well. I remember when it began – at least formally. I was in a storytelling class and I found myself absolutely delighted! And, delight and desire continue to sustain my practice as does my need to continue to grow my understanding around story, connection, conversation, meaning making, etc.
There are all kinds of practices. Perhaps a practice of joy or any practice consists of one or more of the following concepts:
Connection – That is a willingness to repeatedly connect with the topic of our practice. A practice can help a person connect within and with others, spiritually – in all kinds of ways.
Engagement – If we are engaged, we are attentive, aware, focused and we are curious and willing to explore, take action, and participate.
Playfulness – Play, I believe, is one of many doors to joy and learning.
Sharing – we are at least sharing within, and we might be sharing with others (as I am with this blog post), or with nature, etc.
Growth and learning – maybe this is one of the key components. If a practice is alive, one is consistently growing and learning. I wonder, without growth and learning, maybe a practice is a habit?
I don’t know if I am growing a practice of joy, but I am glad to have had a moment to ponder more around the concept of a practice.
Are you developing a practice of joy?
~ Mary
PS This is the tenth day in my challenge to write about joy for thirty-one days, more here.
