Joseph Campbell once shared, ‘We cannot cure the world of sorrows, but we can choose to live in joy.’ Almost five years ago, my life took a profound turn when a head injury reshaped my existence. The subsequent years were marked by an arduous journey of therapy and doctor visits, eventually leading me to retire due to the injury’s impact.
For decades, I thrived as a dedicated educator, but the injury abruptly halted my career. This ordeal wasn’t solely about physical pain—emotional distress gnawed at my spirit. Daily headaches, dizziness, and other symptoms became my constant companions, overshadowing even the diagnosis of memory and processing delays.
The emotional blow of never returning to a classroom was a bitter pill to swallow. This reality crystallized during my grandson’s first Grandparents’ Day. Attempting to enjoy the event, I found myself cornered by panic, struggling to breathe amid the crowd. Similar episodes followed, leaving me trapped in a cycle of fear and frustration.
Amid the appointments and claims of improvement, I resolved to seize control of my joy. The decision marked a turning point. No longer willing to dwell in seclusion, I embarked on a journey of mindset transformation. It wasn’t just about happiness—it was about reclaiming life’s vibrancy.
Choosing joy became my mantra. I redirected focus from past challenges to the wonders around—nature’s beauty, music’s solace, and the warmth of smiles. Tools from my counseling sessions aided me in compartmentalizing and shifting focus from negatives to positives.
Laughter returned, as did engagement with loved ones. Even the clutter of my home became a source of amusement. Embracing gratitude and acceptance, I carved out a space for joy. With determination, I navigated challenges and embraced imperfections.
Sharing my journey sparked a change not only in me but in those around. The concept of choosing joy resonated, even if spiritual understanding varied. So, I explained the art of choosing joy as a lifestyle, a deliberate shift in perspective that illuminated the beauty amidst life’s chaos.
With each step, I felt the empowerment to reclaim life’s fullness. Days were spent outdoors, with family and laughter. Accepting that it’s okay not to be okay became liberating, fostering a new sense of control. My entire life pivoted, and my mindset blossomed, breathing new life into my soul.
Now retired, I’ve rediscovered passions like jewelry-making. The house, once cluttered, now radiates organization. This transformation isn’t a result of perfection but of a renewed mindset—choosing joy, day by day.
Despite fluctuations, the journey continues. Almost five years later, I’m no longer confined by pain or fear. I’ve emerged from the shadows, empowered by the realization that joy is a lifestyle—one that shifts perspectives, infusing life with brilliance.
As you gaze through the lens of joy, the world transforms. By choosing joy, we unlock a new perspective—a path toward resilience, renewal, and a life illuminated by positivity.
