Choosing Joy in the Midst of Winter
February 2026
February can feel long, gray, and dreary. The cold weather, early nights, and lingering winter blues can weigh heavily on our mood. But even in the midst of these dreary days, we have the opportunity to choose joy and bring light—not only into our own lives but into the lives of those around us.
It’s easy to fall into the modern mindset that self-care is about indulgence and that our self-defined boundaries are more important than caring for others or doing anything inconvenient. But we believe that true well-being and fulfillment comes from selflessness. While it is important to fill our cups and recharge, we are called to do so to better give to those around us. By looking beyond our own gloom and consciously choosing goodness, joy, and beauty, we create a ripple effect. Smiles, encouragement, and acts of kindness not only lift others, but they also fill our own hearts with warmth and purpose.
Here are some small ways to embrace joy this month:
Start with gratitude: Take a few moments each morning to reflect and thank God for even the smallest blessings.
Move your body: A walk, a short stretch routine, or a family dance party can boost energy and mood.
Connect with others: Reach out to friends or family—share a cup of coffee, a walk, or even a phone call.
Bring color and light inside: Fresh flowers, a candlelit meal, or a favorite cheerful song can brighten any winter day.
Serve others: Make a small gesture of kindness. Check on a neighbor, write a note of encouragement, or lend a helping hand. Giving of ourselves for others can be one of the most effective ways to replenish our own joy.
Choosing joy is not about ignoring challenges or pretending everything is perfect. It’s about actively deciding to foster beauty and goodness despite the gray outside. When we do this, we not only lift our own spirits but also create a home and community filled with warmth, hope, and light.
Excerpt from "Bright and Cheerful Homes"
Here’s a little inspiration from Rev. Jesus Urteaga to help you keep joy alive at home, even in the gloomy winter season. A few simple habits can brighten the days for you and those you love.
"It makes a great difference in our lives that Christ is the Light! And with him, the home cannot be anything else but cheerful. Cheerfulness and good humor should be our constant companions if we live with God, even when material goods are lacking. If your home does not generate good cheer, then there is something wrong with the way you are living Christianity. Even the darkest and most difficult days bring their little joys, at least for God's children. Cheerfulness is not automatic; we must develop it. Frequently the greatest detail of charity—not to mention mortification—is to smile, above all when our first reaction is to frown or complain…
Everything should have a positive orientation in your home. It should not be your aim, for instance, to "put up with" each other, or to "tolerate" each other. You will find no joy in that attitude. Let your aim be to begin again on the way of love, since marriage is precisely the way of sanctity along the path of human love."
Read the full text of Bright and Cheerful Homes by Rev. Jesus Uteaga.
