Kids seem to always want a Band-Aid. Simple, small plastic strips that somehow have a magic to distract and help the healing process begin.  But anyone who puts on Band-Aids will tell you – it’s not the Band-Aid that’s the real magic. 

The magic comes in the pause, honoring the moment of difficulty with our attention, and bringing a loving presence that starts the healing process.

The Band-Aid can be a Joy Seed of healing – a simple joy in a moment of pain and trauma. Healing with joy – is that even possible? It feels like a contradiction. How can you heal and grow from the trauma of pain? Yet, our deepest moments of comfort are often the ones with joy in them – the deep hug from a friend, holding hands with a loved one, the unexpected laughter that comes and bubbles over when we least expect it. 

How do we make space for joy in our healing journeys and the journeys of those around us?

At work, we’re not handing out Band-Aids, but we can make space for joy in the midst of our healing, especially after the last year. Maybe it’s in the space to share our small wins.  Maybe it’s in the coaching session when we give our attention and listen to each other.  Maybe it’s in our monthly reporting where we share small victories and honor our journey with gratitude.  Connection is a healing balm.

I fell this week.  Nothing disastrous, just a skinned knee and a sore ankle.  I showed my son.  He paused and made a face – scrunched up and worried.  He looked me in the eye with deep concern.  “Do you need a Band-Aid?” he asked.  I smiled and said, “You know what?  Maybe I do.”