What Does It Mean to Carve Out Joy?

This is the question that consumes my thoughts. To carve is to cut with intention—and it is my intention to take steps towards joy, to create space for joy, and to explore the boundaries of joy.

A photo of Katy Gravenor smiling joyously

My name is Katy Gravenor and I’m writing a book called Carving Out Joy.

If you’re new here—welcome friend! Enjoy the ride.

carving out Joy is about sacred tension

“Some of you say, ‘Joy is greater than sorrow,’ and others say, ‘Nay, sorrow is the greater.’

But I say unto you, they are inseparable.
Together they come, and when one sits alone with you at your board, remember that the other is asleep upon your bed.

Verily you are suspended like scales between your sorrow and your joy.”

“On Joy and Sorrow” by Kahlil Gibran, 1883 – 1931

What does carving out joy look like for me?

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Music! I joined an a capella choir called Ensemble Companio. Stay tuned for our NYC-area concerts!

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Faith! Fun fact—I’m a DEACON. Check out the church that saved my spiritual life and inspires me every day.

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Community! Being yourself within community is the point. Stay tuned for a blog with more my thoughts.

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Reciprocity! All flourishing is mutual when we each give of our gifts. Please consider sharing yours today.

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Freedom! Different strokes for different folks. Right now, I’m re-playing Deathloop by Bethesda Gaming.