This is a similar experience to Advent, a season of joyful expectation. We are most of the way through Advent. Christmas is a week away. Today is Gaudete Sunday. A Sunday to lay aside our penitential color of purple and celebrate that our Lord is very near.
Today is a day of joyful expectation.
Joy is interesting because it is accessible to all peoples. It is not exclusive. It is available to all men and women, rich and poor alike. It sometimes eludes the rich and famous while the poor and simple have equal access to it. Despite its diversity we can make several observations regarding joy.