This month marked TWO YEARS since I published my first blog post— all about what joy really is!

It’s amazing to think about and see all the ways I have grown these past two years, both in regards to this space as well as personally.

We’re ever-evolving, ever-learning, and ever-growing creatures, so it felt fitting to celebrate this two-year anniversary of sorts by writing a letter to my younger self regarding joy.

Keep reading to see what I say to younger Claire!

A Letter to Younger Claire

Dear Younger Claire, 

I see you. I see your heart.

You deeply care about those around you.

You want everyone to be happy—even if it comes at your expense.

I see you. I see your brains.

You strive and strive for the “A’s”— for a knowing that what you do will make you happier.

I see you. I see your soul.

You have this deep desire to change the world—to make it better and happier.

I see you. I see your grief.

How you run and stuff away the “bad” feelings—you’re supposed to be happier after all!

I see you. I see your sense of awe trying to break through.
Your pushed-away inner child missing you—wondering where you went.

I see you. I see your dreams and wishes.

All those birthdays you blew out the candles with the simple wish of having a “happy” year.

I see you. I see you in your darkest moment.
When your “happiness” dam broke and everything came flooding through.

I see you. 

I see your healing.

Your dedication to finding a reason for it all.

I see you. I see your faith growing.

Your belief and trust unfolding into a sweet surrender.

I see you. I see your processing and releasing.

Crying, yelling, walking, stomping, letting go of all that no longer serves you.

I see you. I see your intuition coming alive.

The flow, alignment, and the purpose springing forth.

I see you. I see you putting yourself first.

The beauty that truly unfolds from truly living on your terms.

I see you. I see you thriving.

Your heart open.

Your brain focused.

Your soul singing.

Your grief transmuted.

Your inner child playing.

Your dreams and wishes coming true.

Your darkness breaking into brilliant sunshine.

I see you. I see you trading a “happy” life for a joyful one—and never looking back.

Perhaps joy is the reason.

I love you. Keep going!

Love, Older Claire