Watch Mission: Joy Finding Happiness in Troubled Times

Mission: Joy Finding Happiness in Troubled Times is a documentary film released in 2021 that features a dialogue between two spiritual leaders, the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu, on the topic of joy and how it can be attained even in difficult times. The film is based on a book by the same title written by the co-author Doug Abrams. The documentary begins with a background on the two spiritual leaders and their lifelong commitment to promoting peace, nonviolence, and love. Both the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu have experienced tremendous challenges in their lives, including exile, oppression, and discrimination, but they have always found ways to cultivate joy and spread positivity.

The film showcases their meeting in Dharamsala, India, where they engage in a series of conversations about the nature of joy and how it can be experienced by anyone irrespective of their circumstances. The discussions are framed around Eight Pillars of Joy, which are qualities that can nurture a joyful life, such as forgiveness, gratitude, humor, and compassion.

Throughout the film, we see the two spiritual leaders sharing their personal experiences and insights about joy, often with a playful and humorous tone. From discussions about their childhood memories to their views on politics and religion, the conversation is wide-ranging and reflects the depth of their wisdom.

One of the highlights of the documentary is the moments of genuine laughter between the two leaders, which exemplify the joy they are discussing. Their infectious laughter and playful teasing create a light-hearted atmosphere that is both heartwarming and refreshing.

The film also features interviews with people who have been inspired by the spiritual teachings of the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu, including ordinary individuals, activists, and celebrities. These interviews provide diverse perspectives on the universal quest for happiness and the role of joy in personal transformation and social change.

One of the key messages of the documentary is that joy is not a fleeting emotion that is dependent on external circumstances, but rather an enduring state of mind that arises from within. Both the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu emphasize the importance of cultivating inner peace, compassion, and love as the foundation for experiencing joy, even in the face of adversity.

The documentary provides a roadmap for individuals who are seeking to find joy in their lives through simple practices such as daily meditation, acts of kindness, and connecting with nature. The film highlights the power of human connections and community support in fostering joy, which is particularly relevant in the current times of social isolation and uncertainty.

Overall, Mission: Joy Finding Happiness in Troubled Times is a film that offers a message of hope, positivity, and inspiration. The documentary celebrates the human spirit and the capacity to overcome hardships with resilience and optimism. The conversations between the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu are filled with warmth, wisdom, and humor, making it a delightful and enriching experience for viewers.

Mission: Joy Finding Happiness in Troubled Times is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0.