Is it Bad to Feel Good in Turbulent Times?

With war, civil conflict, natural disasters, and political unrest constantly in the headlines, it might feel like there’s little reason to be joyful in today’s world.

And yet…

We witness neighbors helping one another, volunteers stepping up to serve, and acts of incredible courage and love that bring tears to my eyes and joy to my heart. Even amid chaos, beauty and kindness abound. There's so much to feel good about, if we choose to see it.

Still, some people struggle with guilt when they experience happiness in difficult times.

But here’s the truth: feeling joy doesn’t mean you lack empathy or awareness of others' suffering. In fact, sharing joy with compassion while taking meaningful action to support those in need can create ripples of healing for everyone involved.

I don’t wish hardship on anyone. Yet, we know that loss, pain, and uncertainty are part of the human experience. And in those moments, there are always people who serve as beacons of light, bringing joy and healing into the darkness.

Take Patch Adams, for example. Dressed as a clown he famously dispensed laughter to hospital patients, showing that joy and healing can go hand in hand.

In The Book of Joy, co-written with the Dalai Lama, Archbishop Desmond Tutu shared:

"We are fragile creatures, and it is from this weakness, not despite it, that we discover the possibility of true joy."

Both the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Tutu know suffering, yet they chose to teach joy. Their lives remind us that we can carry both—acknowledging pain while choosing to embrace joy.

You don’t have to be famous to make a difference. Think about your family. Maybe you have a dad, favorite aunt, or your zany cousin who always knew how to lighten the mood with a joke, a warm hug, or a silly song. The world could use more of that right now.

As you move through these times, let love guide your actions. Pray. Donate. Volunteer. Ask God/Love/Spirit “What can I do to help?”

Then do that.

And remember to smile. Share a laugh. Cook a meal for a friend in need… and deliver it wearing a funny hat.