This episode marks the second anniversary of the Art of Joy. Our podcast was born from collective healing, sharing of stories, and journeying into the shadows that life asks us to carry. Sharing our stories has a way of laying a foundation of empathy and compassion that may otherwise escape our reality. We have had the honor to sit with, so may brave souls and shared their most difficult moments and success. We have learned that growth can be born from what may seem like an impossible situation. We are so thankful for our listeners. We appreciate all of your feedback and look forward to exploring, sharing, and learning.

Today we talk to Daniel, the chief development officer, of Make a Wish. He and his team develop the resources to grant wishes. They are the fundraising arm that allows this foundation to function. We also have a heartwarming conversation with Jenna, a 16-year-old wish recipient. She was given the most magical sweet 16 birthday party. This community event brought hundreds to celebrate. She shares with us her health struggles and shows us her courage.

The real magic of Make a Wish is in the development and storytelling that is born from a small idea. A little girl's desire to taste snow is transformed into a winter wonderland experience for the child and her family. There is a creative aspect that fuels the development of each wish. Children are asked to consider anywhere in the world they would go, Anyone, they would love to meet. They also discuss who they would like to become if anything were possible, or what would they do if there were no limits. The journey of this process gives birth to a miracle for each child. Make a wish creates a magical story that unfolds from an idea.

"Research shows that a wish can give kids the strength to fight against and even overcome a critical illness." Children's pediatric journals reported that kids with a wish and hope are more likely to stick to their treatments and have fewer ER visits. The space of hope creates a space for healing.

We all need to have light flickering in our dark times. Granting wishes to children is the most magical gift that can be given to a family who struggles. We are supporting Make a Wish through their ambassador program. If you feel called to make a donation, you can contribute here.

The Guest House This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival. A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor. Welcome and entertain them all! Even if they are a crowd of sorrows, who violently sweep your house empty of its furniture, still, treat each guest honorably. He may be clearing you out for some new delight. The dark thought, the shame, the malice. meet them at the door laughing and invite them in. Be grateful for whatever comes. because each has been sent as a guide from beyond.

— Rumi

Ambassador Account

https://secure2.wish.org/site/TR/WishYourWay/Make-A-WishUtah?px=5221185&pg=personal&fr_id=3459

Make A Wish

https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrC3Hzpgb1etEIA8hgPxQt.;_ylu=X3oDMTByOHZyb21tBGNvbG8DYmYxBHBvcwMxBHZ0aWQDBHNlYwNzcg--/RV=2/RE=1589506666/RO=10/RU=http%3a%2f%2futah.wish.org%2f/RK=2/RS=43djHRYvcRab6IWQue61u2bpR5Q-

Make a Wish Instagram

https://instagram.com/makeawishutah?igshid=j4a7r4md4l7k

The Art of Joy

www.theartofjoy.com

https://instagram.com/theartofjoypodcast?igshid=11jazoxyie255