Comments on: Kerrying On: The Fast Track to Joy

By: Missy

Missy — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 20:26:30 +0000

It cracked me up when you described the ironing machine, as my mother had the Speed Queen version (the icon was a side-view of an Indian/native American face with headdress done in a deco fashion.) It was down in the basement and I remember her feeding our cotton sheets through this. Imagine! Going to bed in warm, pressed cotton sheets! As we have chatted before, the mental boomer memories bring me much more joy now than they did at the time. There is some magical point in your life when you switch from acquisition to giving away what you acquired, whether it is material “stuff” or one’s knowledge/experience. Again, another exquisite piece of prose; your gift to all of us!!

By: Bill Stedman

Bill Stedman — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 14:59:03 +0000

Wonderfully written! Oh how often we reach for the sky and completely miss the inexpensive and seemingly insignificant truths in life! It is more blessed to give than to receive is a biblically based concept. Never ceases to amaze how the wisdom in that book seems inexhaustible.

By: Charlene McIlwraith-Sorken

Charlene McIlwraith-Sorken — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 15:44:01 +0000

I have found that joy is based on a very simple fact – joy is not found, rather joy is created. How does one create joy? The answer is simply by generating it. Where does one begin to know how to generate joy? The answer is again quite simple: be generous of spirit, be of service to others and be a wellspring of kindness, patience and compassion. It is who we are, who we are “being” that is key in creating joy. We are human “be”ings, not human doings. We must first decide who we are, then we must put this state of being into action, and we are on our way to generating joy. Joy is not exclusive; as soon as it is generated in others, it overflows within.

By: grizzly bear mom

grizzly bear mom — Thu, 20 Sep 2012 18:17:08 +0000

Finding joy serving in prison ministry: I’ve done prison ministry for 31 years. One day a 17 year old asked me to take me with him to visit his mother. It was two hours out of my way so I said no. Immediately afterward I chided myself: “You take that boy to go his mom!” and called back. In the conversation I said that I was afraid to go to see her. He replied “Don’t be afraid. No one will hurt you there.” I choked out “That’s not what I meant. I’m afraid that I will break down and cry when I see her.” Softly he replied “It would be okay if you cried.” I wondered “WHO IS THIS KID, teaching me compassion?!” But that’s why I do it. It ministers to the prisoners, their families, and makes me a better person. Perhaps that’s why Jesus says he will let into heaven those who minister ot the least of these.

By: David Penglase

David Penglase — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 20:42:20 +0000

I call this practical intentional altruism – where the sense of personal well being that is generated from having an intention to genuinely help others who meet in our personal and business lives. One of the 9 inescapable truths for a prosperous life is to build intentional trust relationships – experiencing life with others is surely where our greatest sense of happiness is created. Beautifully written article Kerry – thanks and warm regards from down under in Australia.

By: editor

editor — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 20:37:56 +0000

@Kathi Please e-mail editor@vitalsmarts.com to learn more about reprinting Crucial Skills Newsletter content.

By: Earl

Earl — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 19:17:47 +0000

Great story. I had the exact same experience, except it was a skateboard. As I raise my children now, I’m always reinforcing the message that “things” can’t bring you happiness. It’s like buying a new car. Day one you can’t stop driving it or smelling that “new car” smell. After a week, it’s just another mode of transportation. True happiness is experienced through others. Seeing your child grasp a concept as you help them with homework, that’s rewarding. Wonderful article as they all are. Thanks for sharing.

By: Kathi

Kathi — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 17:27:47 +0000

Kerry,
I am in the process of writing a book “HealthPose” basically targeted at boomers for physical/mental/spiritual health and longevity. Would it be possible to quote any of this, with all credits, of course? Thanks for the consideration, Kathi

By: Steven R.

Steven R. — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 17:09:48 +0000

I’m so glad Kerry’s articles are back, and in typical top form too.

By: editor

editor — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 16:14:18 +0000

@Marilyn We agree! @Julie De We haven't yet published a collection of Kerry's stories, but we'll definitely consider it! Thank you, all, for the great feedback. We're glad to hear that Kerry's article helped you find "the fast track to joy" today!