Finding Joy: Meaning, Hobbies & Gratitude Beyond CF!

Highlights from the CF Senior Saturday Meet & Greet August 2025 Event

This month’s meeting took a refreshing turn toward a topic that doesn’t always get the spotlight—joy. While managing cystic fibrosis often means juggling medical routines and health challenges, our conversation was all about the things that light us up, give us purpose, and keep us grounded in life beyond CF.

Personal Insights

Participants shared a wide range of what brings them joy, showing just how personal—and powerful—these moments can be:

• Creative pursuits include painting, poetry, crafting greeting cards, or recording music.

• Nature-inspired activities such as gardening, birdwatching, and walking outdoors.

• Fun projects, like building a playhouse complete with a slide and climbing wall.

• Quality time with loved ones, especially children and grandchildren.

• The satisfaction of learning something new from books, PBS programs, or personal hobbies.

• Simple grounding moments, from sipping coffee in a favorite spot to keeping a “joy journal.”

Key Takeaways

• Joy is not optional—it’s essential. Participants agreed that joy sustains mental and emotional well-being, especially during challenging health days.

• Small moments add up. Even on tough days, a completed puzzle, a favorite song, or a laugh with a friend can shift perspective.

• Shared stories were a powerful catalyst for inspiration. Hearing about others’ joy sparked new ideas for hobbies and habits to try, fostering a sense of connection and shared experience among the participants.

• Nature, creativity, and connection emerged as recurring themes for many people’s sense of fulfillment, underscoring their importance in maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life.

The Value of Joy: How It Helps and Where to Start

• A space to share and be inspired. Group members offer real-life examples that others can adapt.

• Ideas that work at all energy levels. Whether you’re ready for a big project like a garden or want a quiet moment of gratitude, there’s a starting point for everyone.

• Community validation. Knowing others prioritize joy reinforces that it’s not a luxury—it’s part of good health.

• Exploration of concepts like “Blue Zones.” These longevity hotspots highlight habits—gardening, community involvement, mindful eating—that align with what many participants already value.

Final Thoughts & Ideas to Explore

Joy isn’t something we find once and keep forever—it’s something we cultivate. From nature walks to music, creative outlets to time with loved ones, the possibilities are endless. Try:

• Starting a joy journal to capture daily moments of happiness.

• Taking up a new creative hobby—painting, writing, crafting, or music.

• Exploring "Blue Zones" principles for healthy living.

• Building smaller, grounding rituals into your day.

This month’s conversation was a reminder: while CF is part of life, it isn’t the whole story. Joy can be woven into every season—sometimes in big, bold ways, sometimes in small, steady ones.