For lasting joy you have to learn to trust your instincts for a sense of what’s best for you. Your instinct is like a small voice, a sensation beneath the surface that tells us to pay attention. We are the only animals on this planet that deny and ignore our instincts. Do you remember a time when you went against your gut feeling? Next time you get a “feeling” and don’t know what to do, do nothing. Quiet your mind so you can listen to that small, still voice. Usually composed and capable, we don’t want to burden others with our worries or loneliness. Still, we can’t block out those feelings. Please call someone and give them a chance to do something for you, even if it’s just to be a listening ear. Luckily, spending time with friends can chase away that loneliness and even nourish your soul. Friends are angels and when you bring them into your life, they brighten everything with their playfulness and love. How often in our daily lives have we put conditions on our happiness? When we get older, retire, pay off the mortgage, get the children grown – then we will find the time to do what we want. I’m often too serious and get too involved in my projects. That is when my friends rescue me with some fun and laughter. I saw this plaque while shopping with my friends from “Chicks Night Out” (ladies that have lost a loved one and get together for some social time). “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain.” I stopped and asked myself, “So, am I dancing in the rain?” I think I am. I do know that I try to be more committed to taking time to recognize and be grateful for the immense blessings that are around me. Thanks to friends and family I celebrate my blessings more. Yes, one step at a time, I’m learning to dance in the rain but I would never have gotten to that place without learning to trust my instincts.