Does it Spark Joy?

Author, Marie Kondo, proposes a very simple selection criterion about what to keep or throw out of your life. She asks the following question: 

"Does it spark joy?"

That's it!  Look at something and ask yourself if that thing sparks a sense of joy in you.  If so - it can stay, if not - it goes.

She says: "Keep only the those things that speak to your heart. Then take the plunge and discard all the rest." 

So as stumble into fall and the last half of 2015, I suggest you apply this same approach to all areas of your life. Ask yourself honestly if the people, places, things and situations around you spark joy.  If not, start choosing some changes.

I know I can always use more joy in my life, so let's start with Andre Rieu version of Beethoven's work Ode To Joy

Joy, bright spark of divinity,
Daughter of Elysium,
Fire-inspired we tread
Thy sanctuary.
Thy magic power re-unites
All that custom has divided,
All men become brothers
Under the sway of thy gentle wings.

Whoever has created
An abiding friendship,
Or has won
A true and loving wife,
All who can call at least one soul theirs,
Join in our song of praise ;
But any who cannot must creep tearfully
Away from our circle.

All creatures drink of joy
At nature's breast.
Just and unjust
Alike taste of her gift ;
She gave us kisses and the fruit of the vine,
A tried friend to the end.
Even the worm can fell contentment,
And the cherub stands before God !

Gladly, like the heavenly bodies
Which He set on their courses
Through the splendour of the firmament ;
Thus, brothers, you should run your race,
As a hero going to conquest.

You millions, I embrace you.
This kiss is for all the world !
Brothers, above the starry canopy
There must dwell a loving Father.
Do you fall in worship, you millions ?
World, do you know your Creator ?
Seek Him in the heavens !
Above the stars must He dwell.