She Strengthens

The Art of Crafting Joy

When it comes to finding happiness, everyone has their own unique approach. Last month, we asked our readers to share their personal stories of how they cultivate joy in their lives. The responses were overwhelming, with people pouring their hearts out about what happiness means to them.

A Legacy of Laughter

Meet Casie Cook, our contest winner, who shares a heartwarming story about her dad, a laughter enthusiast who spread joy wherever he went. Casie, an MFA student at Hamline University, loves words, humans, and the magic that happens when they come together.

Small Acts, Big Impact

Casie’s dad was a master of creating happiness, not just for himself, but for those around him. He left Post-it notes with encouraging messages on his kids’ bedroom doors, surprised an elderly neighbor with a flower garden, and even drove his ex-mother-in-law across three states to visit her dying brother. These grand gestures were accompanied by smaller acts of kindness, like helping strangers at Home Depot and putting away shopping carts in parking lots.

A Life of Resilience

Despite facing adversity, including the loss of his father at a young age and a dysfunctional marriage, Casie’s dad never lost his sparkle. He wore the single father badge proudly, devoting his life to his children and teaching them the importance of kindness, compassion, and resilience.

Carrying On His Legacy

When Casie’s dad passed away at 52, she was devastated. But she realized that he had shown her how to live, and she wears his lessons on her heart every day. She continues to spread joy by holding doors open for others, nurturing her relationships, and pursuing her artistic passions.

The Power of Creation

Happiness isn’t something you find; it’s something you create. You won’t discover it in your paycheck, latte, or new clothes. You create it by spreading kindness, helping others, and living with intention. As Casie so beautifully puts it, “You’ve got to create it — for yourself and the people you share your time with, even those you don’t know.”