Choosing Joy Is a Holy Act of Defiance

Choosing Joy Takes Courage

Can one choose joy in a world that is filled with uncertainty and turmoil?

When sorrow and sadness feel like the most natural and simplest response?

It can seem tempting- even familiar- to fall into the arms of hopelessness.

Especially when the news is filled with stories of war, injustice, fear and much suffering.

But choosing joy takes courage.

Joy Requires Intentional Practice

Despair can be a comfort zone for many.

The decision to step beyond it is a courageous one.

Joy requires a conscious decision, one that is followed by an intentional and active practice.

By choosing to bring joy into our moments, the heaviness of sorrow can begin to lessen.

And light can be seen amongst the darkness.

Joy can be experienced in limitless ways

Joy can be experienced in limitless ways:

• A calm walk in nature
• Listening to Music
• Creating through the arts,
• The powerful yet gentle exchange of a silent smile.
• Prayer and Meditation

These moments secure our resilience verifying that even in these hardest of times, life still holds profound beauty and hope.

A Moment of Courageous Joy

I had the emotional privilege, this morning, of embracing Eli Sharabi, an ex-Hamas hostage. His wife and two daughters were murdered on Oct 7th, he survived 491 days in captivity, chained.

I had protested for his return for months.

I was overwhelmed with emotion, as he stood before me.
Yet in a moment of vast grief and sorrow, I made a choice.
I chose joy- to share joy-not denying sadness but rather offering a better moment.
Sharabi smiled back, his courageous soul, chose a brief yet meaningful moment of joy.

Joy is a Declaration of Defiance.

To choose joy is a declaration of defiance against desolation.
• Joy supports the soul,
• It lifts the spirit
•  Joy shines a light on hope.
Even when the world feels like its broken pieces are multiplying, joy reminds us that better times are possible.

I am creator of the “Morning Inspiration” series, which provides readers with reflections and thoughts to start their day with spiritual inspiration.

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