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In Judaism joy is the supreme religious emotion. Here we are, in a world filled with beauty. Every breath we breathe is the spirit of G-d within us. Around us is the love that moves the sun and all the stars. We are here because someone wanted us to be. The soul that celebrates, sings. –--Lord Rabbi Jonathan Sacks
At a time when we’ve seen the corruption of the word “joy” by the Democrat candidate for President, Judaism always invites its members to fully experience its qualities. It can’t be manufactured, or contrived; it doesn’t have to dominate one’s reality or everyday life.
Instead, joy is an outcome from living our lives to the fullest. It emerges in those moments of true delight and unexpected beauty. It can show up when we least expect it, when we are feeling sad, and suddenly get a phone call from a dear friend. Or when the neighbor’s dog walks toward us, nearly wagging his tail off. It can be seeing a new, unexpected bud on an orchid plant. Or being greeted with a wide smile by a person at the gym. It can fill our souls in response to a loving hug, or a word of kindness.
As we participate in a world that seems chaotic and frustrating, it can be difficult to open ourselves up to joy. We may feel wounded, disappointed, and confused by the stories we hear about tragedy and violence. We may feel uncomfortable when we allow ourselves to be joyful, when we see such misery around us.
But if we live with the mindset that welcomes joy and that opens to the light, we are sometimes surprised by our experience. Suddenly, joy throws up its arms in celebration, inviting us to allow the sadness to move on, and feel the peacefulness and delight of the moment.
When it shows up, it reminds us how blessed we are to live this human life. We were put on this earth, not only to be joyful, but to bring joy to others. It is often most appreciated when it is shared, and in that act, grows and strengthens.
Celebrate joy!
Would you like to share a recent moment of joy?
Discussion (11)
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I'm in a spot where it seems the evening sun produces a rainbow on a regular basis with all this rain. Yet it always looks like this beautiful smile from above - a no worries symbol. That's another co-opted symbol or word.
I also got a text from an old neighbor out of the blue a few days ago who said she was thinking of us. That was very special. You are right - there are so many daily things that produce joy. I think the Hope and Joy mantra came straight from Obama's camp. There is little joy in what they have produced in office.
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All beautifully said, FSC! Those moments give us a reprieve from the difficult days we're going through, and they are abundant, even if we don't always see them. Thanks.
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Yeah, I hate it when Progressives tarnish a very good word and emotion. Mrs Rodin has remarked for years that the Progressives want to take the fun out of everything. So they keep using the word with the unpronounced (silent) "anti-" modifier.
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"We are here because someone wanted us to be."
That is a profound and beautiful statement. I'm adding it to my archive. Thank you!
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It touched my heart, too, Doug. Thanks.
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