Ideas

Making space for moments of joy in dark times

Aug 8, 2025
Joining the conversation is Ross Gay, an award-winning poet and bestselling author known for his exploration of joy in tough times. The discussion centers on how joy is essential for survival, especially during grief. Gay highlights the importance of small moments of delight, shared humanity, and everyday kindnesses. He reflects on how gardening can cultivate joy and connection with nature, while also tackling the systemic issues of privilege and access, advocating for solidarity and kindness as pathways to joy in dark times.
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ANECDOTE

Squirrel In A Pumpkin Moment

  • Ross Gay watched a squirrel plunge into a pumpkin and tried to stealthily record it.
  • The squirrel's wary exit showed him the difference between acquiring and being with delight.
ADVICE

Share Small Delights Out Loud

  • Ross Gay urges you to notice fleeting delights and point them out to others.
  • Share small joys aloud to confirm connection and amplify their effect.
INSIGHT

Grave Gratitude And Belonging

  • Ross Gay links delight to gratitude and our mortality, calling it utterly grave.
  • He frames gratitude as an attempt to belong to everything that made you possible.
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