Joseph Campbell once wisely said, “We cannot cure the world of sorrows, but we can choose to live in joy.” Nearly five years ago, my life took an unexpected turn due to a head injury. For over two years, I grappled with therapies and doctors, my career cut short and my world turned upside down. Emotionally and physically drained, I struggled with panic attacks, anxiety, and a sense of isolation.
In my past life, I relished my role as an educator, a passion I had nurtured for decades. However, the injury left me bedridden and lost. The world seemed too crowded, too noisy, and even a school classroom became a trigger for panic attacks. Grandparents’ Day, once a cherished tradition, turned into a nightmare as anxiety overwhelmed me.
The struggle persisted as I dealt with post-concussive syndrome and post-traumatic stress disorder. Medical appointments dwindled, but my determination to reclaim my joy grew stronger. I decided to emerge from the shadows and stop allowing the injury to dictate my life.
It was a conscious choice – to choose joy over seclusion and self-pity. Gradually, I shifted my perspective. I savored life’s simple pleasures – the beauty of flowers, the warmth of the sun, and the company of loved ones. With strategies learned from my counselor and my own resilience, I began to compartmentalize, focusing on positivity rather than negativity.
Laughter became a lifeline, and I embraced imperfections while controlling what I could. I learned to accept both good and bad days, nurturing an attitude of gratitude and letting go of the need for perfection. Choosing joy wasn’t just a concept; it was a lifestyle, reshaping my mindset and revitalizing my soul.
Step by step, I emerged from the darkness. I ventured outside, rekindled connections, and pursued creative interests. I acknowledged that joy wasn’t just an emotion; it was a perspective that transformed the world around me.
Today, nearly five years later, life’s challenges persist, but my approach has shifted. The journey to joy is ongoing, and some days are still tough. Yet, I no longer dwell beneath the weight of adversity. Instead, I see the world through the lens of joy, a lens that has rekindled my spirit and breathed new life into my days.
So, remember, joy isn’t just a fleeting feeling – it’s a way of seeing, a conscious choice to embrace the positive, even amidst challenges. By choosing joy, you can reshape your world and open your heart to the beauty that surrounds us all.
