Joy Jots
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AUTHOR: KRISTEN OBARSKY
Joy Jots, written by Dr. Tamara Gray, gently steers the reader through a series of fifty-two weekly essays aligned to the Islamic calendar. It reads like a little weekly travel guide of the heart, with a collection of essays leading to spiritual growth and a happy heart. Dr. Tamara Gray’s first essay dips the readers into the significance of Muharram, which is the first month of the Islamic new year. She explains that it is a month of tawba, or repentance, and a month of hijra, a journey from oppression to safety. In this month of renewal, she shares her tips on implementing tahajjud, a night prayer that helps open doors to spiritual refinement and awakens souls.
Each essay is crafted with delicateness and tenderness, like a wrapped little gift of reflections of gratitude to God. Each essay is then followed by and supported with tips and suggestions and has a section for readers to jot their own blessings, joys, and reflections.
I really enjoyed the ease of the book. It felt like I was being slowly immersed in the practice of self-care for a joyful heart. It was really calming to read and felt like someone giving you a warm hug! I hope you enjoy it!
I was really touched by the artistry, the respectfulness of the words, and the hope that they gave me. The story is based on a real secret library created during the Syrian War that started in 2011.