U Missouri just published that boosting Hope is a game changer for mental health and resilience. “It’s a powerful emotional force that gives our lives meaning” and may be more essential to our well being than happiness or gratitude. ( see news release: showme.missouri.edu, June 18,2025)

The reason I love this concept is that it manifests every single day in the center. This week Joy arrives with family in tow. She is demonstrating very little of her namesake and the “woe is me” demeanor pervades the group. Joy has been diagnosed with one of the more difficult diseases that used to have a life expectancy of 6-12 months. She is in her 70’s, vibrant, formerly energetic and this is taking her down hard.

It will require some finesse to turn this ship around but its not my first rodeo. Joy underwent a very big surgery and all the tumor is “gone”. Chemo and radiation will be used to dust up any risk of recurrence but in her situation, not guaranteed. She appears defeated.

“Joy, I don’t want to talk about the treatment. Let’s talk about you. I have one question, why did you have the surgery and why are you here?” She perks up and the beautiful smile changes her entire countenance. ” Jim, show her” she prompts her son to show me her grandchild pic on his phone. “I need to see my grandchild grow and play ball”. I say,”Ok I get it… or piano.” Joy has just demonstrated hope. But central to her own critical power is someone else. I go on to advise that this is the reason she is set up for success. Without meaning, there is no need for hope.

The visit goes on and plans are hatched. Nothing matters now to Joy other than that she was “seen” and she was not just a body with a problem to solve. The entire group left with straight spines, a mission to fulfill and hope in their hearts. Radiation, surgery, chemo do not do that. That comes from within. Just tap in, find hope and discover your own joy in healing. God Bless.