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Taking the first step

Rediscovering Joy One Memory at a Time

Sometimes the best way to move forward is to look back – and trust me, it’s worth pulling your head out of the sand to see what’s waiting for you.

I was told once, when trying to figure out who you are and what brings you joy, to start with the things you loved as a child. So I took a deep breath and let my mind wander back to those simpler times – searching for clues about what made my heart sing before life got complicated.

The memories came flooding back:

  • Those amazing field trips to historic houses where I’d get lost in stories of the past
  • Museum visits that sparked my curiosity about the world
  • Broadway shows and musicals that made me believe in magic again
  • Countless hours at the library, surrounded by endless possibilities between book covers
  • Old-school video games, building worlds with Legos, and losing myself in drawing

One book that really stuck with me from grade school was “The Giver” – maybe because it reminded me that there’s beauty worth experiencing, even when the world feels overwhelming.

Finding Your Way Back (Without Breaking the Bank)

Here’s where I had to get creative. I wanted to explore these childhood passions, but my budget was tighter than my anxiety on a bad day. That’s when I discovered something amazing: your local library is basically a treasure chest of free experiences.

Most libraries offer:

  • Free or discounted passes to museums, historic sites, and cultural attractions (Check your library’s website or ask at the reference desk)
  • Community event calendars with free activities
  • Digital resources for exploring interests online

Pro tip: Many libraries partner with local attractions through programs like Museum Pass Programs – it’s like having a golden ticket to adventure.

The Leap of Faith

I had to take that deep breath, close my eyes, and just try one thing. So I did. My first adventure was a historic house tour just a few miles away – completely free with my library pass.

Here’s what helped me prepare (because anxiety doesn’t have to wing it alone):

  • I researched the location thoroughly online
  • Confirmed parking was free (one less thing to worry about)
  • Read reviews and looked at photos to know what to expect
  • Planned my route and gave myself extra time

That one-hour house tour changed everything. I walked out feeling something I hadn’t felt in a long time: proud of myself. It was such a simple thing, but it proved something important – I could find joy again. I was allowed to experience this world and this life in my own way.

For my second outing, I decided to share the experience. I brought someone from my support system along to the same place, because sometimes the best adventures are the ones you don’t have to face alone.

Your Turn to Spread Your Wings

Ready to take your own first step? Here are some resources to help you get started:

Remember: There’s no rush, no judgment, and no wrong way to rediscover what makes you happy. Your flock is out there, and your joy is waiting – you just have to be brave enough to take that first step.

You’ve got this, beautiful human. Every small step forward is worth celebrating, and you’re never as alone as you think you are.

If you’re in crisis or need immediate support, please reach out: Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – available 24/7, free and confidential.

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