From the Administrator

Joy is defined as a feeling of great pleasure and happiness.  Synonyms of joy include delight, jubilation, exultation, glee, exuberance, and exhilaration.  Just saying these words makes me smile as they make me think of occasions that I felt these emotions. Joy is what makes life beautiful. It’s what gets us through challenges and allows light in to illuminate the shadows. Joy heals our wounds, inspires us to greatness, and fills our souls with goodness.  We live in a period of time that is fast moving and can be difficult.  There are times when we may need to search to find joy.  Interestingly enough, there are studies done to show what is effective in finding joy if we find ourselves going through a tough time.  Some ways to find joy include playing with children, watching nature, concentrating on your blessings, read a good book, exercise, and listen to music.

A very effective way to find joy is by performing acts of kindness to others.  We can lift our own spirits by finding a way to share joy with others.  Reaching out to someone who is suffering or going through a hard time has the dual benefit of helping both people.  If we all made an effort to perform one kind act each day think of the change we could create in our world. I encourage each of you to reach out and spread kindness and create joy for yourself and for others. Consider visiting some of the residents on a regular basis or even consider becoming a volunteer.  Having you come to visit or share a meal would mean the world to many of them. There is so much joy in this facility that is ready to be shared and spread around.  This is the joy that is available for free for all of us, it really is love for other people.

Sara McCool