I didn’t give this year a word.
Usually before the new year, I cultivate a word for the upcoming year and share some thoughts about it…but honestly, the only word I could think of was DREAD and I wasn’t in the mood to share that, to spread that, or to give energy to that.
And I was right, I suppose.
The horrors, they do persist.
But this week I felt something…something I haven't dared feel in months: JOY
This week I watched as a part of our society I identify with was uplifted with a quick little video teaser and a countdown. We convened online and shared theories, we defended one another when miserable people tried to steal that joy, and we rejoiced with every new clue posted by Taylor Swift’s media team. Yup, if you didn’t already know, I am a Swiftie. But this post isn’t about her, per se…it’s about feeling joy.
It’s well documented that oppressive systems seek to diminish joy.
Joy, much like hope, is a weapon to be wielded against authoritarianism (I can’t believe I spelled that right the first time!). Throughout history, regimes have attempted to control or suppress artistic expression because they understand its power to foster unity and resistance.
The constant stream of astounding news (the horrors still persist) is leading to burnout and fatigue among those who are even only moderately tuned in. But as @pamoms4change reminded us on Threads the other day, “You CAN fight the bad guys and be excited for new Taylor Swift music. You CAN hold rage and glitter at the same time. We contain multitudes! Fury for injustices, and joy that refuses to be silenced 🧡✨” and that’s the energy we should all be channeling in 2025.
Choosing joy allows us to challenge the narrative.
Shared experiences create solidarity and resilience.
The strength and motivation from this provides energy to fight.
And above all, it affirms our humanity and our right to a full life.
And don’t we — despite the horrors — deserve that?
I do.
I’ve lost too many people to despair.
I’ve watched apathy slide into misery and eat people from the inside out.
Right now we are surrounded by gloom and hate.
So I’m choosing joy.
I’m choosing rage AND glitter.