Over the past seven years, I have centered my leadership and way of living around joy. I committed that no matter what happened in my life or around me, I am intentional about tapping into and staying connected to joy. I value being able to lead from that place and spark inspiration in others, so that they work to find the same.

The current climate of our country makes it terribly challenging to talk about joy and even tap into it. What doesn’t happen directly to us still impacts us or those we care about in so many ways. There are so many people who don’t feel safe and fear for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Recently, the United Way of King County posted on our social media channels a message that speaks to our concerns for our staff and community, especially our immigrant neighbors. As the leader of this organization, I determine if we say something, and I have a hand in what we say. I’ve been in this position in other organizations as well, and even then, I have had to craft statements of support or opposition.

The responsibility of leadership requires me to separate what I would say as a citizen, Catherine Cushinberry, and how I can say what should be said on behalf of United Way of King County as Dr. Catherine Cushinberry, Interim CEO. It’s not always easy to tease the two apart, but necessary.

Personally, I’m saddened, disappointed, appalled, embarrassed, and frustrated by what is happening in our country. My heart aches for my neighbors and friends. And yet, as the leader of this organization, when I speak for it, I must manage those emotions to honor this role. Again, it is not easy, but necessary.

And, in all of what I feel and in my restraint I remain joyful.

Weird, huh? I do. I am joyful that across this country, people are standing up and standing in for one another. I’m joyful that the work we get to do can fuel individuals and families in every effort to support our community. I’m so proud and filled with joy because I get to work with team members who care deeply and are thinking about how we can be anticipatory and responsive in meaningful ways.

I’m joyful because a song I learned years ago in my home church in Memphis says, “trouble don’t last always”. We will see the other side.

In that truth, I am joyful.