We are weighed down by uncertainty, pain, and division. The news cycles spin with stories of new horrors, and social media amplifies negativity. We are overwhelmed by stress and struggle. It’s easy to believe that the world is lacking in goodness.

Even, and especially, in the darkest times, joy and love still exist.

Joy doesn’t mean ignoring the struggles of the world. It means choosing to see the beauty that persists alongside them. It’s a quiet rebellion against despair.

Experiencing Joy in a World Full of Injustice

Stories of joy, love, and justice are not always loud. They don’t always make headlines. But if you look closely, you’ll find them everywhere—woven into the fabric of everyday life, waiting to be noticed, relished, and shared.

The Quiet Strength of Joy

Joy is different from fleeting happiness. It's not forced  It’s not just about the moments when life feels perfect, but the deep, abiding sense that goodness still exists despite challenges.

It’s in a child's laughter, your beloved pet's cuddles, the warmth of the sun on your face, or a song that moves your soul. It’s in the small victories—the friend who checks in on you, the kindness of a stranger, the way your favorite book or quote feels like a known friend.

Joy doesn’t mean ignoring the struggles of the world. It means choosing to see the beauty that persists alongside them. It’s a quiet rebellion against despair.

Love as a Guiding Light

Love, too, is all around us. It’s not just found in grand gestures but in the little things—holding a door open, sending a thoughtful message, sharing a meal, or simply sitting beside someone who needs to be heard.

Love is resilience. It’s choosing to care for one another even when it’s easier to turn away. It’s believing in hope even when circumstances seem bleak.

Even now—especially now—love is what will carry us forward.

Seeing the Good 

If you’re struggling to see the good in the world, try these simple shifts:

• Look for small moments of kindness. They are everywhere, but sometimes we can to train our hearts and minds to notice them.
• Be the good you want to see. A simple act of kindness can ripple farther than you know.
• Take a break from negativity. Social media and news can be overwhelming. Step away and focus on what nurtures your soul.
• Create joy. Listen to music, spend time in nature, laugh with a friend—whatever fills you up.
• Hold onto love. Even when things feel heavy, love is what makes life worth living.

The world is far from perfect. Systems were never meant for everyone; they are doing what they were designed to do.

And this world is also full of love, kindness, joy, and some justice. When we choose to seek them, we not only find light—we become it.

And that is how we move forward.

Fellow leaders and learners, I wish you courage, rest, and Beloved Community for the journey. Together we catalyze a brave, bold, and liberatory future.

Peace to you,