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Find Your Joy

Inspired by historian Heather Cox Richardson’s call to “find your joy,” this space is devoted to the everyday acts that resist despair and build community. In times when authoritarianism thrives on fear, isolation, and division, joy becomes a radical act. Whether it’s sharing a meal, planting a garden, reading a book, or dancing in your living room—joy connects us, strengthens us, and reminds us of what we’re fighting for.

This page is your hub for resources, stories, and tools that educate, uplift, and empower. Explore articles that illuminate history with hope, discover local initiatives that foster connection, and find simple practices that bring light into your day. Because joy isn’t frivolous—it’s foundational.

✨ Joy is resistance.  Joy is community.  Joy is yours to claim. ✨

Ready to dive in? Let’s find your joy.

Why Joy?

Heather Cox Richardson, historian and author known for her newsletter Letters from an American, often emphasizes the importance of “finding your joy” as a subtle yet powerful form of resistance against authoritarianism. In her view, authoritarian regimes thrive on fear, division, and the erosion of individual agency. They aim to control not just institutions, but the emotional and psychological landscape of a society. By encouraging people to seek joy—whether through art, nature, relationships, or civic engagement—Richardson offers a counterweight to this oppressive dynamic.

Joy is inherently

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Ways to Find Your Joy

Personal Passions & Creative Outlets

  • Learn a new craft or hobby — pottery, knitting, woodworking, photography, or calligraphy.
  • Take up journaling or creative writing — express thoughts, dreams, or fictional stories.
  • Explore music — learn an instrument, sing in a choir, or curate mood-boosting playlists.
  • Try painting or drawing — enjoy the process without worrying about the outcome.
  • Cook or bake something new — experiment with recipes from different cultures.

Nature & Movement

  • Go for daily walks in nature — parks, trails, or tree-lined streets.
  • Start a small garden — herbs on a windowsill or flowers in
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Heather Cox Richardson's Letters From an American

Find Heather Cox Richardson's Letters From an American, available on Substack, here.  There is no need to enter any credit card information, as these are offered free from HCR.

To access HCR's YouTube channel, click here.

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