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Trula Daugherty's avatar

Thank you, Sue for this beautiful post about joy. It is a wonderful reminder that we are in control of how we handle difficult times. The image of holding your granddaughter as you work on the quilt is precious. I can imagine your smile and the glow of love in your eyes.

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Sue Ferrera's avatar

Thanks, Trula. Theses are surely precious times for me.

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Good Humor by CK Steefel's avatar

Joy is a beautiful word and topic. I’m having to dig through the moving-across-country mud to unearth the joy pieces but I know I will find it when I arrive. Thx for the reminder.

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Sue Ferrera's avatar

Moving is always such a chore. Best of luck that it goes smoothly and that you love your new home. Where are you moving again?

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Good Humor by CK Steefel's avatar

Boston area. Renting first.

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Sue Ferrera's avatar

Oh, I love Boston. I do so hope Joy is waiting for you when you get there! Tell her I said hi. 💕

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Lynn Ellison's avatar

I love this. During difficult times it is sometimes not easy to remember that if we look hard enough joy is right there waiting for us like a big warm hug. Thank you for your beautiful words.

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Sue Ferrera's avatar

There is much to distract us from joy at the current time, which makes it all the more important to seek it. 💕

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Paulette Bodeman's avatar

I love this post and your Friday Round Up so much, Sue!

Thank you for the reminder of Alisa's book, Gotham Girl Interrupted, I just ordered!

What brings me joy today is this post AND the photo of you. One, I want those pants. They're gorgeous! Two, the image is pure joy - your sweet smile and loving heart welcoming your students and your readers into the sacred space of your words and Santosha, where you hold the container for all who enter.

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Sue Ferrera's avatar

One of the nicest things about having a friend who's a writer is when they share their thoughts with you in such a beautiful way. Thank you very much, Paulette, for your kind words.

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Paulette Bodeman's avatar

My pleasure, Sue.

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Alisa Kennedy Jones's avatar

Thank you again, Sue, for this remarkable post and your incredibly kind shoutout—it truly means the world. If my condition has taught me anything (besides the fact that my brain can throw a party and a panic attack at the same time), it’s this: yes, our brains are hardwired for threat simulation—because, hello? Survival—but they’re just as brilliantly wired for deep, dazzling joy… if we’re brave enough to make a little space for it.

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Sue Ferrera's avatar

You are very welcome for the well-deserved shoutout. And yes, bravery is undoubtedly involved in welcoming joy especially during chaotic times. Thanks again, Alisa, for your important work here on Substack.

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Sue Ferrera's avatar

Thank you @Joyce Wycoff for the restack!

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