Joy Is

Joy is around a table and a meal
Joy is in a family and a hearthfire
And drawing other kindred hearts
Into that glowing circle.

Joy is seeing life begin
In the new green of leaves
In the face of a newborn child
In the hopeful light of gentle dawn.

Joy is the mystery in music
That melts and yet binds up our souls;
Joy is a walk on a cold, clear night
When the stars sing out that all is well.