The Healthy Spiritual Journey • December 2025: Joy to the World

“A joy shared is a joy doubled. ” – Goethe

"Joy is the simplest form of gratitude.”  – Karl Barth

Two weeks ago, I was preparing to give the speech “Unleashing the Potential of Joy and Wholeness in the Service of Others”. Thanks to the Coalition for Physician & Advanced Practice Providers (APP) Well-Being, where I serve as a member of the Board, I have learned a great deal about joy and wholeness. Among other definitions, joy is a deep, enduring form of happiness which can result in contentment of life; and wholeness is the complete and harmonious integration of physical, mental, social, and spiritual wellbeing. As we prepare for our 16th annual Joy & Wholeness Summit, our goal is to help physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs) reinvigorate the idealism and the joy that accompanied our decision to choose a caring profession in the service of others. At the summit, we will share ways of being whole in mind, body, and spirit. These professions have a nobility about them that allows us to give encouragement, to impart sympathy, to awaken hope, and to bring joy into the hearts of those we serve. Physicians and APPs have service built into their working lives; but everyone, no matter what their profession or ability, has the potential – whether at work or in leisure - to bring joy to the world. 

Joy is one of the most profound feelings we can experience, soul-satisfying and accessible to everyone. It is not dependent on wealth or status. Instead, joy often arises in the quiet moments of gratitude, in the laughter shared with a friend, or in the recognition of beauty in the ordinary. When we share joy – like kindness - it can multiply and often has a ripple effect with others in our circles of influence. Love and kindness and joy are not diminished when given away. They are magnified! In a world that emphasizes competition and scarcity, joy reminds us of abundance. There is always more to give, and in giving, we receive. Imagine the possibilities when we give joy to the world. 

Gratitude can provide a pathway to joy. When we pause to recognize the blessings in our lives, whether grand or simple, we can cultivate joy. When we appreciate the gifts of breath, warm soup in winter, the presence of loved ones, or the opportunity to enjoy freedom, we manifest joy to the world. 

Joy is not reserved for any one religion, belief system, or culture. Across the globe, people celebrate births, marriages, victories, and milestones with joy. It is a universal language. Festivals, songs, dances, and rituals – whether religious or secular – are expressions of joy that unite communities. Joy reminds us, that despite our differences, we share a common humanity that craves to bring joy to the world. 

My religion is Christianity. So, during the Christmas season, many songs and traditions speak joy to me. The reason for the season, of course, is to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Christ child. It was no ordinary birth! This event was “good news of great joy” because it signified the beginning of God’s kingdom on earth and the promise of great news for everyone. Jesus Christ, the long-awaited, infant king will rule with truth and grace. And we sing “Joy to the World”!

In God’s love,

Lanny F. Wilson, MD

“…I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people…”  – Luke 2:10b