the energy of joy

the energy of joy

by | Jan 21, 2019 | joy

In the northern hemisphere, January gives us practice in playing even though it’s dark and dreary. This is good practice for living. It has been a tough month to practice joy “for no apparent reason.” Stomach flu followed by a cold introduced discomfort and pain. When...
Inclining toward joy

Inclining toward joy

by | Jan 7, 2019 | joy

Today has been typical. I waded into my email inbox, determined to respond to new messages so that I could get on to the rest of my to do list. Hours would pass before I came up for air. There is satisfaction when I accomplish a task, but I don’t make room for joy. At...
five tips for choosing joy over midwinter blahs

five tips for choosing joy over midwinter blahs

by | Jan 17, 2018 | Disability, joy

We are in the bleak midwinter in Minnesota. The air temperature outside has been in the single digits (Fahrenheit). Personally, I’ve been dealing with additional losses: more MS -induced disability and the death of our dog, Cocoa, who kept me company for 15 years....
allowing joy, allowing sadness

allowing joy, allowing sadness

by | Jan 9, 2018 | chronic illness, Disability, joy

This month’s promise is to “live joyfully for no apparent reason.” Lately, I’ve been thinking about joy as a flotation device. I have been sad because my left arm and hand have gotten weaker and less responsive. Often, I am unable to drive my wheelchair. Because of...
looking for joy

looking for joy

by | Jan 3, 2018 | joy

How can I find joy on a day like today, with the temperature at a -15 Fahrenheit and my body is completely paralyzed? I have to reach for joy outside myself. It can be found in the colorful posters that surround my desk, the rocks on top of my desk, a video of kittens...