Dear Friends,
Only if we understand, can we care. Only if we care, we will help. Only if we help, we shall be saved.” ~Jane Goodall
While recovering from a brain hemorrhage fifteen years ago, I determined to be more mindful. I envisioned future moments as a string of lights stretching in front of me. Still new to songwriting, I picked up my guitar and wrote "Lights Along the Way."
All we have is this moment in time
We know this for certain in our lives
Only one brief, beautiful moment in time
What is it speaking to you?
A dear friend gave me Mindfulness Cards: Simple Practices for Everyday Life. Here's a sample, “Look for the Lovely":
"The way we look affects what we see. And what we see affects how we feel. By intentionally looking for and tuning into moments of loveliness, generosity, and kindness throughout your day, you can nudge your mood and overall perspective into the positive. Practice with focusing on small moments--the coolness of the breeze on your face, a stranger's smile, the kindness of a friend. These moments may seem minor, but by giving them your attention, they become amplified and brighten your mood."
NY Times Guest Essay: 10 Tips for Being Happily 85 Years Old (Like Me)
- Nobody's thinking about you
- Make young friends
- Try to see fewer than 5 doctors
- Get a dog
- Don't hear the cheers
- Everyone's in pain
- Listen for Bob Marley
- Join a gang
- On regrets
- Start and end everyday by listening to Louis Armstrong
“We are a global community conservation organization that advances the vision and work of Dr. Jane Goodall. By protecting chimpanzees and inspiring people to conserve the natural world we all share, we improve the lives of people, animals, and the environment. Everything is connected–everyone can make a difference.”
A rainbow on the Oregon Coast…
Thank you for lighting my way, Joy
Joy Zimmerman is a touring folk & acoustic roots singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, presenter, and former social worker. Joy's latest album,"Where the Light Lives," debuted at #6 on the Folk Alliance International Folk Chart in August 2023. joyzimmermanmusic.com