Joy badge
The objective of this badge is to delight in the daily joys of life and to bring that joy to others.
Requirements are the same for all age levels. Otters must complete 4 requirements, Dolphins 5,
Butterflies 6, and Eagles 7. Every level must complete the two starred requirements.
1.* How would you define joy? Are you a grouchy person when you get up? Or do you try to make everyone’s
morning a happy one? Joy is more than a feeling, it is a way of thinking that can affect not only yourself, but those
around you. The first step to leading a joyful life is to change the way you think. Instead of getting up in the morning
grumbling about what’s for breakfast and how you really wanted to sleep for another 15 minutes, try changing your
attitude and looking for the blessings in your morning instead; the wonderful feel of a hot shower, the taste of warm
maple syrup on fresh made pancakes, the perfect pair of earrings to match your outfit….
Your first requirement is to put this idea into practice in your everyday life. Whenever you find your self feeling
irritated, angry, or disappointed, recognize those feelings and immediately try to find something to be thankful for.
You will be surprised how much simple gratitude can change your whole outlook on a situation. For two weeks, keep
a Joy Journal. In it, put every little thing that you find joy in each day. Entries may be as simple as seeing a beautiful
bird outside your window, the smell of chocolate chip cookies, or a really good book. (Otters can keep a picture
journal if they prefer.)
2.* Have you ever noticed that some of your most joyful moments come from bringing joy to others? When we
make someone else happy, we cannot help but be happy ourselves. Try to make someone smile every day for two
weeks. Make it challenging and try to pick people who really look like they need someone to brighten their day.
Help your mom clean the kitchen without being asked, tell the clerk at the grocery store that you like her hair style,
play a game with your little brother even if you may not feel like it…
3. Learn some silly songs or games that make you laugh and share them with friends or family.
4. Have you ever noticed how just the memory of a joyful moment can lift your spirits? Even embarrassing moments
become something you can laugh at once they are nothing more than a memory. Think about ways you can create
some new memories to hold on to. Throw a party for no particular reason. Crank up the music and challenge your
family to a dance competition. Have a karaoke night with your friends or family. Come up with a list of at least 10
different things and do 2 of them.
5. Families today can become so busy that they forget to spend time just having fun with one and other. Write down
a list of fun things you can do with your family in only 15 minutes that will bring all of you joy. Do at least one of them
a day for one week.
6. What does your faith say about being joyful? Find verses in the Bible, the Torah, the Koran, or your own holy
book, that address joy. Memorize at least one of them.
7. Host a Night of Laughter. Following are a few ideas, but feel free to come up with your own. Have family
members take turns telling jokes. Hold a serious contest. On “go” everyone must hold a straight face. If you smile
or laugh you are out and may do whatever is necessary to make the others laugh so long as you do not actually
touch them (no tickling aloud.) Have a pillow fight. Have a 1970’s disco night complete with costumes.