Chassidim say we should be joyful all the time but the Mussar masters say that is not only unrealistic, it is impossible and even undesirable. Every emotion and capacity we are given has its unique value, and the rabbis go so far as to debate what the role of insanity might be, and they come up with an answer. That approach includes sadness and every form of feeling, in its time and place. We should feel sad and even angry about the suffering of others (to the extent that that motivates us to help) while leaving time to be joyful and celebrate the gifts of life. Both.
What a meaningful example of the importance of “nosei b’ol im chaveiro”. Thanks!
How do we balance the need to feel the suffering in the world with our duty to be joyful?
Chassidim say we should be joyful all the time but the Mussar masters say that is not only unrealistic, it is impossible and even undesirable. Every emotion and capacity we are given has its unique value, and the rabbis go so far as to debate what the role of insanity might be, and they come up with an answer. That approach includes sadness and every form of feeling, in its time and place. We should feel sad and even angry about the suffering of others (to the extent that that motivates us to help) while leaving time to be joyful and celebrate the gifts of life. Both.