Storyteller Sunday – Norah Dooley

April 6 –

The Buddhist idea of mudita, or sympathetic joy, is the practice of genuinely
celebrating others’ happiness to foster compassion and shift away from
self-focus. We’ll explore this concept through the beautiful letter of Christian
priest Fra Giovanni, which reminds us that joy isn’t something to chase in
the future but something we can find right now by shifting our perspective.
We will also examine the science behind laughter, showing how
joy—whether through mindfulness or humor—can enhance well-being,
reduce stress, and bring more connection into our lives. Norah will tell a
story about Quakers during the time of the Fugitive Slave Act that comes
from Jessamyn West’s collection of stories, Except for Me and Thee.