In "Gilead," Marilynne Robinson reflects on the challenges of sharing joy with others. The quote highlights her struggle to celebrate the happiness of those around her, suggesting that it can be easier to empathize with their sorrow than to join in their joy. This tension underscores the complexity of human emotions and relationships, where we often find ourselves more comfortable with sadness than with elation.

The statement suggests a deeper exploration of compassion and the connections we form with others. While we naturally gravitate toward offering support during difficult times, celebrating others' successes requires a different kind of vulnerability and openness. Robinson's insight encourages readers to consider how they engage with both joy and sorrow in their relationships.