Joy. A small word with big meaning. Merriam-Webster defines joy as "a feeling of great happiness, and is a happiness that can be found in different ways for every person."
Last weekend, I experienced unexpected joy through small acts for a larger effort. Myself and a couple of my peers from the education department spent last Saturday painting a local school. When we pulled into the parking lot, we were greeted by an enthusiastic man, wearing athletic shorts and a tee shirt. His smile was infectious, even at seven in the morning.
The day began with announcements and a word from the school’s principal, who I then realized was the friendly man from earlier. He seemed so proud of his humble school, and was extremely grateful for this outreach project. I then learned the students had no idea this was happening, and that they would be completely surprised on Monday. As he continued to talk, he mentioned the enormous impact this could have in boosting student morale and making the school somewhere each child could feel comfortable and important. This speech truly “rallied the troops,” and set a joyful tone for this amazing day.
Throughout the day, I worked on various projects in parts of the building. From painting stripes on the halls’ walls to painting the Presidents’ names on a set of stairs, each project brought its own fun and joy. I worked alongside one of my best friends for most of the day and bonded with the other education volunteers. Laughter, conversation and upbeat music echoed through the halls as we worked. As we went from one project to the next, we were always greeted with a smile and genuine joy from those around us. But, the greatest joy I witnessed was that exuded by the principal as he circulated to view our labors. He bounded through the halls with his camera and instantly boosted our energy levels.
When I finally had the chance to walk around the school at the end of the day, I was astonished at the joyful artwork now flowing throughout it. There were beautiful murals, inspirational quotes, art on the steps and fresh paint throughout the entire building. Some had previously described the school as an uninspiring place to learn, but now, it is beautiful and welcoming for all students. It was unlike anything I had ever seen before, and I still cannot fathom how we accomplished this in a single day. Though everyone was exhausted, it did not show. Even as the day wound down and clean up began, people still had smiles on their faces and were joyfully working.
As the principal came around to congratulate our efforts and offer his thanks, I could not help but say my own thanks. I had the opportunity to spend time with the people I love, help children, and revitalize an amazing school. What more does one need to have a joyful day? I am not sure, but I hope everyone can feel this same sense of joy doing something they love.
