Relearning laughter, music, and the small things that bring back life

Joy doesn’t always return in big ways after a heart attack. More often, it arrives quietly — through tiny sparks you might not even notice at first. A familiar song. A sudden laugh. A calm morning. A small moment that feels… lighter.

In this episode, I share how joy slowly found its way back into my own recovery — not in dramatic bursts, but in gentle reminders that life was still worth leaning into.

Here’s what we cover:
• why joy returns quietly, not with a fanfare
• why men think they need everything “sorted” before they can feel good
• how laughter sneaks back in when you least expect it
• how music can reconnect you to the person you were before
• the tiny moments that show healing is happening
• why joy isn’t forgetting — it’s recovering

If you’ve felt even the smallest lift — a smile, a calmer breath, a lighter moment — that’s not random. That’s healing. And it’s worth paying attention to.

If you’ve noticed wee lifts here and there — a smile, a calm breath, a lighter moment — they’re not random.
 They’re part of your recovery. And you’re further along than you think.

Next week: “Gratitude Isn’t Weakness — How Thankfulness Turns Survival Into Strength.”

 Listen to Episode 13:
https://strongerafterthestorm.com/episodes

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📩 Each week I write an honest letter for men rebuilding life after a heart attack. You can join in on the site.
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🤝 And if you know someone going through the same storm, share this with him. It might be just what he needs today.