A West Penn Township woman’s writing is featured in a sequel to “Discover the Gift” book and movie by the same name.

A chapter by Terree O’Neill shares the pages with work from 30 others, including the Dalai Lama, Marianne Williamson and Jack Canfield in “Discover the Gift of Joy: How to Experience Joy in Work, Life and Relationships.”

O’Neill recently traveled to Huntington Beach, California, and joined other authors for the official launch of the book.

“My chapter is called ‘The Other Side of the Mountain’ and chronicles my story of unimaginable loss and finding my way to joy again in life,” O’Neill said.

O’Neill said that she lost her husband, Jake, in 2018.

“A few months later as I was seeking stories and content to help me forward I found a film called, ‘Discover the Gift,’ ” she recalled. “It blew my mind, teaching me much about the gifts we all have inside us. It truly was part of my healing journey.”

At that point, O’Neill said, she began following the posts about the book and film, and began to share what she had been going through.

“I also lost my son Hunter 3½ years after losing my husband Jake,” O’Neill said.

She continued writing and sharing her experiences, and she was asked to participate in “Discover the Gift of Joy” sequel by writing a chapter.

“I said ‘yes’ and now here we are about to launch this amazing sequel book,” O’Neill said in the days that led to the launch.

O’Neill recalled feeling nervous about writing a chapter but was hopeful that her story could help others. She and other authors met online each month to work on the project.

“It has been amazing to be a part of a bigger movement with other amazing folks, storytellers and wonderful humans that offer their own stories to help the world,” O’Neill said.

According to the information from the publisher, the book explores how joy can be consciously cultivated — not only in moments of celebration, but in everyday work, relationships and life’s challenges.

“Through personal stories, practical insights, wisdom filled quotes, guided activities and transformative teachings, readers are guided toward reconnecting to self with purpose, fulfillment and authentic happiness,” according to the publisher.

A companion journal and coloring book provide interactive tools to help readers meditate, embody the teachings, reflect on their own journey and actively practice joy in daily life.