On the lookout for joy
No matter your age, everyone seeks joy. Even in the most difficult places—like the infamous slums of Dharavi in Mumbai, or war-torn corners of Africa—people still chase happiness. This morning, I stumbled upon almost a decade old Medium article which gave me a glimpse into the lives of Ethiopian kids who’ve taken that pursuit a step further.
In a place with no roads or paved spaces, they discovered joy in skateboarding. What began with just seven skateboards and 25 boys has now grown into a thriving community known as Ethiopia Skate. Built on passion and perseverance, this club is a testament to what’s possible when people embrace what they have instead of lamenting what they lack.
When you don’t have, keep your eyes open for it
These kids have created joy from scraps; turning abandoned buildings into skateparks, transforming local obstacles into ramps and props for tricks. They chose to live their dreams rather than let their limitations define it for them.
Isn’t that what we all crave? A spark of joy in our day, a reason to smile. Yet so often, we’re caught up in excuses. “Ohh I am too busy, too tired, or I don’t have enough time or resources.” We forget the simple pleasures we once cherished, buried under routine and the chase for money. Along the way, we lose touch with our skills, our hobbies, and the things that once made us feel alive.
Maybe it’s time to dig out those old paintbrushes, put on your favorite song, or dust off your camera and capture a few moments. Sit back with a drink you love, indulge in your favorite food, and just be. These are the simple joys; the real stress busters.
I truly believe everyone has their own little ‘joy boosters’ waiting to be rediscovered. So go ahead, find yours. Have some fun!
For more entries in Adi’s Journal, click here.
This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Ratna Prabha.
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a very good reminder to slow down and invite a bit more sweetness into life’s ordinary moments.
Our default status is happiness, and we all should go for it.The Ethiopian kids have created joy from scratch, and that’s what life is all about. I have been looking for a purpose and I am unable to find it. I have tried almost everything I can, and now the hunt is for something totally against my grain.
Such an inspiring post! Love the term ‘joy boosters’.
This is such a timely boost. I have been feeling low for sometime, and couldn’t quite place this feeling. After reading about these Ethiopian kids, I realised that what’s died is passion. And skills that I need to recover or maybe rediscover. Loved this inspiration.
I loved how you captured those little bursts of joy ; it feels like you turned ordinary moments into mini celebrations. Reading this made me pause and smile at my own morning coffee ritual. Thanks for reminding us that joy can be so simple yet powerful!
We should make our limitations a new destinations to explore… I never thought I can speak confident when I am there on a platform addressing many but charged my limitations and explored the world of limitations and now I am a confident online speaker hosting my workshops and managing my clients with confidence and dignity.
Such a heartwarming reminder to pause and appreciate the small joys—this not only made me smile but also gave so much hope that no matter how dark the times get, human resilience is built to survive and thrive
Such a heartwarming reminder to look for joy in the everyday. It made me want to reconnect with the little things I used to love but forgot along the way. Thank you for this gentle nudge.
During times of lack and self-doubt, a bit of introspection and a bit of mindful attention towards our surroundings will definitely bring out some form of joy in us. Nice reminder.
Joy truly finds a way, no matter where we are. These kids remind us to look for happiness in the simplest things and keep dreaming despite challenges. Such a beautiful reminder.
Such a cheerful post! I truly believe in God helps those who help themselves. Hence, when we start looking for joy, we find it!
This reflection on finding joy in everyday moments deeply resonates with me. It’s a gentle reminder that joy isn’t always grand—it often lives in simple pleasures: a warm cup of tea, a shared smile, or a quiet moment of gratitude. Embracing these small joys can truly brighten our days.
But unfortunately we always keep forgetting about these small joys and always run behind achieving those grand things. I also feel the need for such gentle reminders. And one or the other from the lovely blogging community keeps writing about it.