and open ourselves to the possibility of change, we in no way deny or run away from the reality of our situation. In fact we do exactly the opposite; we embrace the emptiness. It is precisely our failure to inhabit our life which has rendered it dull and meaningless. So while we defy the meaninglessness of our life, the act of defiance consists in

Speak with all your heart and search out the goodness of your soul. Find the good points which are within you and cleanse them of all the evil in the soul until you pour out your heart like water before God. This is the way to attain true joy and to subdue the power of fantasy which is the source of all lust and desire. Through this you can acquire

The Rambam clearly spells out this concept, writing:49 The happiness with which a person should rejoice in the fulfillment of the mitzvos and the love of G-d... is a great service.... There is no greatness or honor other than celebrating before G-d.