Joy would be a good name to have, wouldn’t it? It practically embodies itself. If someone approached you, extended her hand, and said “My name is Joy,” wouldn’t you smile and maybe even feel a little joyous yourself?

I’ve been thinking a lot about Joy. Our mission states, in part, “Celebrate Life in all its joy and mystery.” How do we do this? Do we jump up and down with a big smile on our faces? What are some other ways that joy can be expressed? What causes joy? Is joy a brief moment, or does it endure? How are our lives impacted by joy? Is it right to feel joy when others are suffering? Where does joy fit into the sacred circle of life?

Perhaps you will join me in reflecting upon these questions (and maybe even some answers) as we seek to affirm and promote our Principles, remembering that we are united in seeking a balanced life.

Born in New Jersey, Donna spent her adult life in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, where she worked in health care administration. She is an avid reader, runner, gardener, volunteer, and practitioner of Tai Chi. Donna is a member of the UUFH sermon writing course where she learned about sermon writing and a lot more. Thank you, Rev. Joan [Kahn-Schneider].