Moments of Dee Dah

1.     If you were having a Dee Dah Day, how would people know it?

I’d be very talkative. I would be so bouncy, one could hardly pin me down – practically dancing really. I would sprint from place to place. I wouldn’t be able to sit still. I’d be animated. I would probably do unexpected things. And if there was a story behind the Dee Dah, I’d probably tell it to EVERYONE.

What would be the outward signs that give you away?

The genuine, uncontrollable smile from ear to ear. People ask about that smile. They want to know what is behind such a smile. I think it borders on maniacal. Cheshire Cat grin. And mischievous. Cat who ate the canary.

Tell about your last Dee Dah Day moment. What brought you joy and caused you to really celebrate life?

I think the closest I’ve come recently was when my digital piano came in the mail. It was the hardest thing for me to spend the money even though I got an exceptional deal. And once it finally arrived, I was able to let go of the expense that could have been spent elsewhere, and I could just delight in everything good.

Up until that point, I was using a ridiculous little thing from the 80s that was inferior in every way except that it could produce the notes. I was sneaking 15 minutes here, 30 minutes there, 45 minutes over there and an hour back this way at various pianos around town. I felt like an addict getting a fix.

And getting my own instrument in my own house was like coming out of the closet. I could play as loud as I wished and as long as I wished whenever it suited and not feel guilty or like a criminal. I could not stop playing. I was drawn to it.

2.    What are some of the ways we tend to squelch the spirit and enthusiasm of those around us who seem to have more than their fair share of Dee Dah Day moments?

My number one act against another’s Dee Dah Day is to refuse to listen. I refuse to inquire. I don’t want to hear it. I turn away. I turn off. I’m uninterested. On rare occasions, I’ve even warned someone that I don’t want to hear it or see it. I might even explain my plight or complaint against it turning their celebration into my own pity party. I’m evil.

My number two act against a Dee Dah Day is to point out problems with or obstacles to the event behind the Dee Dah Day. Why would you want to do that? Are you sure it is in your best interest? You should consider something else first. You cannot do that! And the best part on my side is that most everything I say is true and valid to an extent. That’s my justification. But my delivery is lacking, cruel or untimely. I’m awful.

3.    Who is one person in your life who models the Dee Dah Day spirit?

I don’t know. I don’t have Dee Dah Day kids. Probably my fault. Most everyone acts like responsible, straight-faced grown-ups.

There is one person I know, (and the author will point out that the most joyful people are those amidst suffering,) who has been through so very much in the recent past that remains amazingly upbeat at all times.

What have you learned about joy by watching this person? (Remember, this person can be any age.)

This person always puts others first. Both family and friends. No matter how much this person has going on, this person always remembers me and the little things that brighten my day. This person brings me joy when I least expect it.

A joyful heart is good medicine,
but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
Proverbs 17:22 (ESV)