The new week didn’t start as planned. I went to the store early yesterday morning, picked up groceries, started my car – only for my car to die and leave me stranded in the parking lot. Oh no. My first response is embarrassing:  I sat back in the drivers seat, opened up my groceries, took a deep breath and ate a cookie. A delicious chocolate chip cookie inside my non-mobile car. After a conversation with my dad discussing car resuscitation options, we came to the conclusion to wait until my boyfriend came back in town that night. I’ll just request an Uber ride home, I thought. No success. So I grabbed my bags, locked my car and walked home in the sprinkling rain.

Despite the setbacks, there was something so peaceful and humbling about the situation. No car. Just pavement, time and a little balancing act to not crack the cartons of eggs.

They say, “don’t judge a person until you walk a mile in their shoes.” Today was living through that metaphor and brought a lesson on empathy. That time spent on the side of the road as cars zipped past was a reminder of how many in poverty live on a daily basis, both inside and outside of the United States. I thought of my patients who come into the hospital with calloused, worn feet. I thought of those who walk just to get water. I thought of the person who has to walk miles to get to a bus stop everyday for work. When you take away a convenience, like a car, you learn its value very quickly.

I didn’t make it to church this morning – church made it to me. What if we all practice more empathy? What if we overcome fear to feel a deeper emotional intimacy towards the struggles and pains of those around us? Just my own opinion as a Physician Assistant, a full heart is sometimes the best medicine to heal wounds. As we start Holy Week my hope is less sympathy (acknowledging) and more empathy (understanding).

As much as I love Joyfully So, I do not ever want it to become a necessity. It is so, so much fun – yes. I love having a creative outlet outside of medicine and being challenged from an entrepreneurial perspective. However, the privilege to buy new clothes is something I hope to never take for granted. I am still going to share fashion and lifestyle, but let’s not let that message overshadow a message that is of utmost importance:  people. My original plan when starting Joyfully So was for it to be a resource to cultivate joy. That still stands true today. So let’s love life and love others.

With that all being said, spring is a definite source of joy! If it has florals, I am on it! This affordable floral top is under $30 and perfect for spring transitional weather. The fabric features pinstripes and floral embroidery. I wore it with white jeans and classic nude pumps, however these shoes were made to be worn with this top! Size down on this top as it does run big. Of course I am wearing it with a current favorite, a pom pom purse!

I hope your week is off to a great start!

Live your life joyfully so,

Ashey

 Outfit Details:

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