There’s a book by Chris Hedges called War Is a Force That Gives Us Meaning. In it, he argues that we need meaning in our lives, or else they are vacuous; but we also need joy, lest we become fanatics and lose sight of what we’re striving for. Even those who think their crusade is just can become cruel and fanatical if they don’t take time to dance and smile and sing with their friends and family.

We have meaning in our pursuit of social justice. The joy of games and friendship is what keeps is grounded. It’s not a frivolous extra, it’s necessary so we don’t lose sight of what we’re in this for.