Where Is My Joy?

Where is my joy?
It was here
only a moment ago
sparkling eyes
bubbling laughter
daisies plucked one by one.

Is my joy
a luminescent soap-bubble
easily popped by
harsh or careless words
disapproval
disappointment?

Does my joy
depend on others
making me a slave
to their whim?

Or does it come
from deep within
a place of inner dimension
my core being of love and light?

I have not lost my joy
nor can you steal it
for this joy is rooted
in faith and love.
It is who I AM
now and ever shall be!
Amen!

This poem is dedicated to Rebecca, my muse and dear friend.