Letter from the Editor

There is a lot going on in the world today. With around-the-clock news cycles and social media posts notifying us of some polarizing event every fifteen minutes, it’s no wonder many people are struggling with low emotional energy. The good news is that the weather has warmed up, making it a great time to be outdoors. Mother Nature has a way of helping us put worries and cares into perspective. So as you are hiking one of southern Utah’s scenic trails or cooling off in the lake or backyard pool, think about the following suggestions for recharging your emotional batteries:

1. Give yourself an infusion of happiness by investing in an activity that brings you joy. It should be something that reminds you about what matters most to you. Here is the important part: while you are doing this activity, stop thinking about what is bothering you and live in the moment, putting aside worries about the future. And don’t forget to laugh—preferably one of those belly laughs that makes those stomach muscles think they’ve been doing sit ups.

2. Surround yourself with a support network of people who care about you and for whom you care—people who inspire you to both give and receive. Notice that I used the word “receive” and not “take.” Receiving is not about expecting others to give to you because you are more important and deserving. It is about accepting a gift without guilt, neediness, or obligation. Receiving is necessary, even important—an act of love because it offers a chance for others to give.

Giving, on the other hand, can inspire positive change and healing in our lives. Giving resources and time to those we care about (and even those who are strangers to us) brings an immediate feeling of peace and joy as described in the hymn “Have I Done Any Good?”:

Have I done any good in the world today? Have I helped anyone in need? Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad? If not, I have failed indeed. Doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond measure, A blessing of duty and love.

There is an energy that flows from the symbiotic relationship of giving and receiving. Maya Angelou said, “When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.”

3. Nourish your physical body by making sure you’re getting enough sleep at night, eating healthy, drinking plenty of water, and of course, doing something that gets the blood pumping. Go outside and soak in the sun’s rays while doing something active. As you take care of yourself physically, your emotional well-being will follow suit.

I am grateful for this time of year and for each of you who support our magazine. I hope this issue will inspire you and will help you feel better and do better for yourself and those around you. As always, I value your feedback.

Brendan Dalley Brendan Dalley Editor Editor