Finding Joy in the Shadow of Loss
Loss and grief touch every stage of life. We experience them in ways both subtle and profound—from friendships that faded, to unmet dreams, to job changes, illness, relocation, relationship shifts, and death. Yet in many of our cultural circles, grief is expected to be somber and isolating no matter the type of loss - a solitary burden that keeps us disconnected from our full humanity. These cultural expectations often prevent true healing and trap people in prolonged suffering. This program invites a different way. Together, we will explore how joy and humor coexist with sorrow —not to diminish our grief or offer distractions, but as meaningful companions and coping mechanisms alongside grief. While grief and loss can have devastating impacts on both body and spirit - creating chronic stress, depression, and physical illness - humor and joy offer a healthy counterbalance. They reduce stress hormones, lift our spirits, enhance recovery, and most importantly, connect us to one another during our most vulnerable times. We are delighted to welcome back Mary Jo Neil, Certified Humor Professional, for this compassionate and meaningful program. Mary Jo will guide us in gentle discussion where our views and expectations regarding grief and loss will be explored and then suggest how joy and humor are accessible tools for coping, stress reduction, and healing. This is not about ‘cheering up’ grief but instead allowing space for the whole of our emotional experience and response. There will be quiet time for reflection and opportunities to share as you feel led. Join Mary Jo in this safe and sacred space to discover the humor that can be found in the heartbreaks and absurdities of life, the healing that is possible through laughter and lightness, and how community can accelerate healing.
DATE: Thursdays - 1/15, 1/22, and 1/29/26
TIME: 6:30 - 8:00 PM ET
COST: $75
LOCATION: ZOOM
IMPORTANT: You will receive an email from programming@wellforthejourney.org at least 24 hours in advance of the start of your program. If you are unable to find the email, please check your SPAM or JUNK email folders. This email will include details to help you prepare for your program including any pertinent handouts, location information, and the ZOOM link for online programs. Please be sure you have received and read this email a minimum of 24 hours in advance of the start of the program. Thank you!
FACILITATOR: Mary Jo Neil
FACILITATOR BIO: Mary Jo Neil began Drawn Dialogue as a creative means to spark collaboration, communication and connection through humor and visuals, in other words she gets to play!! Having received a masters degree in art therapy from George Washington University she realized the power of visual language and has used imagery in nonprofit leadership trainings for for nearly two decades. Mary Jo then found the world of improv and humor as means to enhance individuals and teams. Mary Jo completed a 3 year program through the Association of Applied and Therapeutic Humor earning the designation of Certified Humor Professional (CHP). She lives with her husband in western Howard County and has been active in her children’s lives while they were growing up and now gets to play with grandkids.