Care Partner Wednesday–The Domain of Joy

“This is what makes us different.” The wife of one of the residents stood by my desk with a glowing face. “You’re not perfect. Nobody’s perfect. But this…” she waved her hand, “this is wonderful. Special. This is what makes us different.”

She was referring to the many staff in all departments who dressed in costume to make life fun for residents on Hallowe’en. Everywhere you turned there was something new and fun to see in the form of a staff member in costume. In our neighbourhood, Robin Hood gave you your pills, Waldo (as in “Where’s Waldo?”) helped you get ready to meet the day, Jack Sparrow fixed your toilet and Superwoman greeted you at the desk. Every time residents discovered a new costume, there was laughter, exclamations, and yes, joy.

Joy is at the pinnacle of the triangle of the seven domains. It can be elusive, and is dependent on the other domains being fulfilled. Unless I know you, we are connected, my life contains meaningful activities, I can make choices,  I feel secure and I have opportunities to grow, joy isn’t possible.