as a sensitive person myself this hurts me, but watching you all these years taught me that we need to be strong and not let anyone ruin our dreams

Oh my god... Joy, I am so sorry. I'm almost in tears right now. I wish I could hold you so very tight and, you know, just be there for you. We've never met, but I watch your videos every day, and in some way you became a part of my life. You are in my country, you are just in a couple of kilometers from my house, and I feel so embarrassed and so ashamed for what you have to experience here. Girl, please, please know that there are people here who love you, who support you, who admire your strength. I was so happy to know that you were going back to Russia, and now I'm in shock. I still hope to see you on stage, and meet you, and talk to you. Please, be strong. Don't allow these brainwashed unfortunates break you. They don't understand, that place of birth, religion, or color, or any sort of sexuality does not make them better humans than other people. They just need any reason to blame someone for their unhappiness. Be strong. Don't give up. Sorry for my imperfect English, I'm too emotional right now to mind the grammar. I love you and wish you all the best. Keep going.

Joy I think you are just great to have uprooted yourself and moved to a country where you knew no one, you did not speak the language and chose a career path that is super difficult and you have succeeded. I wish I had an ounce of your bravery to leave the comfort of the known and the familiar for the unknown, but please do not give up (you are the head and not the tail, first and not last above and not beneath rejoice in knowing that). Your are amazing and I am sure that when you return to Russia the path would be smoother....you are a principal dancer in Russia how many people can actually say that....

Joy, I can not express my disappointment, my sadness, my feelings for what you experienced today. I'm really sorry you had to go through this. I've been following you since you joined the academy. You really caught my eye. And as a ballet student myself I always look up to you for inspiration. You've come too far, studied TOO hard, experienced pain and injury and being away from friends and family to achieve your dream to dance! Russia has been your life for lots of years. You are so young and talented and you've got the most beautiful character and the most kind personality. You have many opportunities and and a very bright future. Don't let politically brainwashed people hinder your path. if a change of environment is what you need, then go for it. I support you and wish the best to you. Even if you don't know me. Sending lots of love and good vibes to you. Feel better and have a good trip!

This was really a shocker for me, especially since I thought Russia was such an amazing place to dance! It was an eye-opener for me because I want to dance in a European company someday and seeing this made me think. Joy, you wonderful and should power through! What you do is AMAZING and nobody can take your passion away from you!

I had to pause your vlog to respond to the experience you described - I'm so sad and angry on your behalf, but I'm so impressed at how well you understand what's happening. They ARE jealous, and they MUST be brainwashed to only see your passport and not the incredible, dedicated and truly hardworking dancer you are. We are all cheering for you, Joy, from all over the world, to keep on dancing, but also to be happy doing it. I know and appreciate how much you love Russia and Russian Ballet, but I can't help but personally feel that this company does not deserve the passion and genuine love you bring to the art. I love and admire you, Joy, even just as some viewer on the internet. You inspire me and so many other people!! And I truly hope you can dance somewhere that appreciates what a passionate artist you are!

You are wise, mature, brave and TALENTED. You will figure out what's best for you. Merdi Joy!!

I'm sending you a huge hug from Vancouver Canada

You are the hardest working dancer I've ever seen. Nothing compares to your work ethic, moving to a foreign country at such a young age. You are truly inspiring and wherever you end up you will be amazing. Don't let the nastiness of others get you down!

As someone with very bad social anxiety I can't imagine being attacked like that. Your such a strong person to even be thinking of going back. Just follow your instincts, do what makes you happy.

One day you will look back at this, and thank them because you are stronger.

Hi Joy, I hope you find this comment, it's cheesy but I want to share the impact you have. Your dedication and bravery in moving to another country is so admirable. I am 17 and moved away from home to become a ballet dancer and to be offered such an honest snapshot into your world is invaluable, I have spent the past 3 nights discovering and watching your videos and you are such a kind and genuine person. Not to mention you are a beautiful dancer who in my opinion is as good as the world's greats. Your videos are so helpful and well put together and I hope you continue to make them and to fight for your dreams. Stay strong, sometimes it's the very people no one imagines anything of, who do the things no one can imagine xxx

I'm so sorry Joy! I will be praying for you, it must be so hard. There are many dancers here in America who are in awe and have respect for your amazing braveness to pursue your dreams in a place far far from home. I pray that you will find a company if not the one you are at now that will love you and be kind and fair. There are many many dance studios that would LOVE to have you as a teacher here in America so if you cannot get into a company there is always the wonderful option to teach. I love you so much. Thank you for being such an inspiration. - Charlotte

You are so real, Joy. So talented and so genuine. I enjoy watching your vlogs on a constant basis. Thank you for sharing. Thank you for being you. Dancer to dancer, I love you

Just keep showing them that no matter how immature they may act or how many times they insult you, that you will be the mature and bigger person. I know it's hard to see a place that you call home hurt you like that, but don't let them see that. If they see it hurting you they will do it more and more, until they think you are going to leave to company. Don't give them the satisfaction of that. You are wise beyond your years, so brave, a beautiful person and dancer, and so inspiring, Joy!

Joy, you are such a strong person, please don't give up. You have already made it this far and made all your family so proud as well!

So sad to see this happening and you doubting yourself and your decision to follow your dream. Hoping you stay safe and are able to push through regardless of some irrational, displaced xenophobia. What you are doing makes the world a better, more beautiful place. Ballet fans all over the world are behind you & support anything you do. Stay as strong as you've always shown yourself to be.

Joy, you are so brave, beautiful and brilliant. I love your flat! You've worked so hard for a magnificent career and I know that your faith will always uphold you. So many prayers are with you -- never forget that! Thanks for sharing your life and art with us.

Joy, I don't know where to start. I started watching you in the beginning of the summer and have since become one of my favourites. You are full of love and light and your steel-hard work ethic always inspires the crap out of me :D When you said I want to talk about a situation in my company I was 'nononoo' - you, as a person and how much you give for the art, your passion, should get nothing less than what you give in return. The description broke my heart. I don't understand these kind of people nor do I fully understand the situation there, but it sounds alarming. Like you said, that kind of behaviour comes from a deep place of fear and own insecurities/problems. I always say love is the answer but if even the administration of your company acts that way it's not a good place to stay. Not for you health or happiness (well none of us knows you but in the long run this would be exhausting..) As for speaking out loud, I think you did the right thing. Yes, maybe many people in that country wouldn't support it.. and maybe your work mates (this sounds so absurd after hearing how they behave) will call you out or make fun of you, but by saying something you show this is not OK behaviour. (and if people reference to cultural differences.. Russia is still part of _This World_) As long as you are safe, share your truth. There are too few people doing that anyway. + cliche: 'Be the change you want to see in this world.'

Joy, I was so moved by your vlog today. I am so sorry for the horrible unkindness you experienced. Remember that you are incredibly brave and strong. You moved to Russia not knowing the language and without your family at 15!! I don't know what will be best for you, the only advice I can give you is to go where you are happy and wanted and valued, wherever that may be. You are an INCREDIBLE talent and have accomplished and sacrificed so much, you deserve to be in a company and place that is a place of safety, warmth and kindness.

Джой, ты такая сильная и талантливая, второй день смотрю твои выступления и не могу оторваться! 🌞

You're such an inspiration to me and lots of other young dancers. If you love it there and want to stay, focus on the people that do support you! We love you!!!

Challenge them to a dance battle!

One of my favorite sayings by the Dalai Lama is "do not let the behavior of others disturb your inner peace." It is definitely harder than it sounds from my own personal experience. However, with a little reflection and time to yourself the answer might present itself. Good luck, Joy and know that you are beautiful and wonderful person as well as dancer. 😊

Its 2 years later. You reminded me so much of my own daughter. What a brave girl! Amazing dancer but thats the least of it. Cheers! X

I don't know how i've missed this video. But i wan't to give you yhe biggest hug ever. And look how far you have come now! You can be so proud of yourself 😘

You are such an amazing dancer Joy. You should not let a few people stop you from doing what you love. Sadly politics is pushing into your life in an sad way. Keep true to your love of dance. You have so many people who care about you!

Truly you are a beautiful dancer. I've followed your journey. You're amazing.

Joy! Your courage to open up yourself like this and share you experiences with the rest of the world is amazing! You dance beautifully and your advance technique is obvious. Just dance and take care of yourself and your needs! Do not put pressure on yourself that you need to be like this or that ballet "star" that is out there in the midst of thousands of other ballerinas dedicating themselves just as hard. Your purpose is your purpose! You are unique in your own way! Just keep enjoying your adventure and be happy and grateful because our life in this physical realm is temporary. You have a beautiful body and wonderful personality. You show both vulnerability and an incredible determination and strength to follow your own path. I had ballet classes for 8 years when I was much younger. My feet used to break all pointe shoes and that alone made ballet an impossible career for me. So when I watch you dance I think "Oh I WISH I could dance like that! i just wish as that unfortunately was not meant to be for me." You are incredible. With love, Dora

Oh, Joy :( This was heartbreaking to watch, but I'm glad you shared it. I, personally, believe that none of us should ever allow another to influence our decisions or tell us what we "should" or "should not" do. You have worked SO hard for what you have, and have such a deep passion for your work and life. But I also understand that physical, mental, and emotional fatigue make it so much more difficult to combat and withstand that kind of behavior and treatment. Ultimately, the only way you'll persevere is by finding a place that make you truly happy and makes you feel content. That may be with your current company- you may just need time to reflect and space/distance to regroup. Or, it may be elsewhere. The answer(s) will come. Try to make the time, each day, to meditate. Your body, mind, and soul need to decompress, recharge, and center. It will help you with the clarity you need in the coming weeks and months

You're amazing Joy and don't let anyone ever put you down! that was extremely uncalled for and extremely rude of those people to criticize your every move. I feel like you should just listen to your heart and pray about it. you will keep doing amazing things no matter where you are!

I'm Russian and I live in the US. I'm SO, SO, SO, SO ashamed for my country!!! I'm not from Moscow and I dislike Moscow people because the majority of them are mean. Every Russian knows this. I'm happy and honored that such an amazing person and a hardworking professional like you lived in my country and danced in Russian ballet! Living here in the US I only met one American person that was mean to me because I'm Russian. All the rest are AMAZING welcoming people. I'm so sorry for Moscow vultures you had to deal with that day!

Not everybody is like that! Give them a chance! You are a true inspiration! Continue what you are doing! Held your head high!

Thank you for your honesty Joy. I understand why you want this channel to be authentic and I'm glad you're brave to keep it this way. I'm sure some people have opposite opinion but I encourage you to stay true because that's what we come to your channel to watch. :-) you are an exceptional woman. I'm sending you much love from Slovakia! Huge hugs

awwwwwe joy that just made me cry. you're so talented wherever you are! there's so much jealousy in the states too so don't fret. hugs

You serious?! The pianist wouldn't even play for you? That's so petty. They are just trying to put you off your game. I guess you have to figure out if you are staying with the company because you want to, or if you are just staying to prove them wrong. I really want you to find a company that really appreciates you!! Because you are AMAZING!! There are some people you have just never going to make happy, for whatever reason. Sadly, there seem to be a lot of those people in your company. I have my hopes up for Asia!!

remember, maybe 5 people acted with hate towards you, but you have hundreds and thousands of fans all over the world who love, adore, and pray for you ❤

Just you keep your head up, sweet Joy! You are amazing, I've been watching your videos and you INSPIRE me. Don't you dare quit. Don't listen to them. They are just intimidated that you went to their country, learned their language with dancing tantamount to Pavlova. Like. A. Boss. You are strong, wise, beautiful, and important! And this Mississippi girl is watching and cheering for your every endeavor. Haters gonna hate. Forget them. You don't dance for them.

We love you Joy! Stay strong! Things will turn around and your talents will take you far!

Keep your head up high and don't let those bullies get to you! You are such an inspiration to dancers and women everywhere. Don't be afraid of who you are... it's ok to be proud of where you come from.

I'm so sorry you had to experience this :(( I'm new to your vlogs because of Jenna and Julien. I don't normally comment on videos but I just want you to know how much I look up to you, and how inspiring you are to me. I hope this experience doesn't get you down too much, and that Asia is everything you want it to be and more. Sending my love XXxx

You're young and it's a hard slap of reality to realize that just because people are physically grown up it doesn't mean they behave maturely. ANY time someone is being passive-aggressive, it is a sign of immaturity. As an American, I can't advise you how to deal with this because Russia is culturally different, and what would work here might not fly there. In America though, you would go to HR if someone refused to do their job (play the piano) and that impacted your ability to do your job (dance to music). So what's the Russian equivalent of going to HR? Do that. Rise above the passive-aggressiveness. It's easy to get sucked in, but don't. I think it's good that you're on your way to Asia - a break from being in a hostile environment will be good for you. Hopefully Asia will be happy to have you. A word of caution though: nobody likes the person who comes from somewhere else and is constantly saying "Well, where *I* come from, we do it THIS way." You were implying American ways are better, by saying you were going to dance in pointe shoes, by talking about the medical treatment you got in the US, etc. You could have just said "I was in the US when the shoulder problem happened, so needed to get treated where I was." Don't be that girl constantly talking about how things are different where you come from. Nobody likes that girl - I think that's what they were reacting to.

your apartment seems so nice and pretty big!

Joy, you are very brave and amazing to go to a different country halfway around the world to dance Russian ballet and how you taught yourself the entire language there in order to make each day easier. What you do is amazing and no one should make you feel like your less than that. You dance beautifully, you are so interesting, and you are an inspiration! :) keep doing what your doing!

Joy, i have been watching so many of your videos but all in a jumbled order so im a bit late on this one but once i watched it, i couldn't not comment. i wanted to say that you deserve nothing more than to be accepted for the ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE ballet dancer that you are. i know how it feels to not be wanted in a class just because of the person i am. you are truly an amazing ballerina and you are worth so much more than the way they are treating you... i think the best thing to do is sick to your faith and find out where God wants you to be because that is the only true way... through God. lots of love from South africa

Joy, I just found your channel and I love your channel! This video makes me very sad and reminds me on a situation that I had on my ballet studio.... My teacher ask me to create to the music of Alexandre Luigini's "ballet egyptian" a two or three minutes solo for her open door event. I did it and all the others from my group were soooo jealous. Live your dream and stay strong. You made it in Moscow and you could be sooo proud of yourself... I wished I would have had this opportunity as I were a child. My parents don't allow me to follow my dreams and those dreams are now in my heart. Don't let other people let destroy your dreams! Rock the ballet world!!!

Joy, I come from a very "connected" family. (I'm sure you know what that means.) Since the podcast with Jenna and Julien, I've been a bit worried for you. Based on what I know of how our relationship with Russia is detiorating, the fact that you work in Moscow, and that you're an extremely relatable and well spoken young woman; this morning's incident is no surprise. Nor should do I believe it was spontaneous. Bottom line? I don't think you should run away, but I do believe 100% the wise decision would be to leave Russia as soon as possible. In my opinion, your message is able to reach more people when you're safe, not to mention, less stressed. You're in my prayers, Joy. God's speed!

Xo perseverance is the hard work that you do after you're tired of all the hard work that you've already done. I see the spirit and your passion and I admire you for that. Whether you stay or go, I still see you having a very positive influence on those around you, both where you physically are, and those who are moved and inspired by your vlogging. There are cruel people but let your light shine on.

Hi, Joy! I'm from Brasil, and after watching your video I got really emotional and angry about your situation. I Mean, you worked really hard for this, and now this jealous people are trying to make you unhappy. I really admire your courage to talk about this, because it happens all the time with outsiders ballet dancers around Russia. I hope you can find another place to shine, YOU ARE SO GIFTED! And you don't deserve to be around this environment. Anyway... I wish the best of lucky on your career and whatever time will feel sad about this you can feel comfortable to talk to us. WE ARE HERE FOR YOU!

Joy, do NOT allow these envious, rude and frankly despicable people get you down. There is a reason you were promoted to Principle, and everyone who watched you've videos can see why. You're so called "colleagues" can see it too, they're testing you and pushing you until you break. If you stand up for yourself and show that you deserve that job, not them, then they have no ammunition. Stay strong Joy, and whatever you decide to do, know your viewers love you x

Please always remember that there are people standing behind you and always supporting you!♥

Hi Joy, Since you appeared on J&J's podcast I've gone back and binge watched your vlogs. I think you're a beautiful person and a beautiful dancer and just stay true to you. You know the quality of your work and work ethic. The answer will come to you. Keep your head up and keep doing what you do best. Have a great trip to Hong Kong!

This sounds so hard. I just can't understand why people can't judge other people by their character and talent instead of by their cover or passport, as you said. Don't give up; you're an amazingly talented dancer and you will be able to get whatever you want. We're with you. *Hugs*

Thank you Joy for putting yourself out there....you are fearless. I just started watching your blog so I don't know yet your future with Russia or Hong Kong and the decisions you have made but you are a part of something bigger, and when ever in doubt you can always reach your heart's voice to heaven and you will get the answers you seek.

There is nothing that I could possibly say that hasn't already been said. All I can do is send you positive vibes and mental hugs. I enjoy all your vlogs and I believe that you are an amazing dancer. I hope that things work out no matter what you choose to do. Just be safe and healthy.

Joy, It hurts me to hear of people who are so blinded by jealousy for the uniqueness and work ethic you bring to your work and life that they cannot truly see what a kind-hearted and special person you are. People who act so negatively strive to damage you and your goal. You cannot let them demean or diminish the incredible work you have done or who you are as a person. I have been watching your videos since the very beginning and I can see that, recently, your heart has been pulling you in different directions. I know that you are an incredibly strong person just by the fact that you are willing to share your journey and story on the Internet with complete strangers. I just want to tell that that you are strong enough to handle any situation thrown your way and that you will come out stronger after you find a solution. Keep your head held high, and good luck with your upcoming performances in Asia! Also, where can you buy a Project Prima shirt? :)

Be strong and keep it up Joy... You will continue to be my inspiration to persevere, to be always strong, and to be humble and not to be afraid to take risks.. . Much love from the Philippines...

Don't let you scare away by bullies. if they made you principal, there also have to be people who really believe in you. You are such a beautiful dancer! i'm not a dancer myself, but your courage, perseverance and strength really inspire my. i love watching you. Be strong and fight for your dreams ;) Lots and lots of Love from Belgium

Joyyyy :( oh my lovely internet friend

I know this is an older post but I hope you've continued because you are salt and light. Keep going!

sending love

Joy, I could not believe that your peers had the gall to treat you like this. You are a talented, beautiful, strong woman, not to mention kind and wonderful example for all Christian women, and no one has the right to make you feel inferior because of your success. Much luck to you in Asia. We will all be waiting with open arms if you decide to return to America, where you will be given the very best treatment for your injuries and a respectable wage for all of your devotion to your craft. God bless.

I have nothing to say that you don't already know, but I am so sorry for what's happening to you. Feel better.

In each country there are good and bad people!

Joy, please don't cry! It will be fine for you! When I've gone to Moscow first time, I've felt aggression from some people. It was my first impression from Moscow. When I've visited Moscow next time, I've had other feelings: some people are nice. I live in Siberia. If you will come to Siberia, you will feel other: kindness, humanity. Moscow isn't all Russia. All will be fine! You so pretty!

You are so amazing. Don´t let anyone turns you down!!!

I know this was a year ago but do not worry about what people say. People will say something evil - everyone - someone will. It's all either jealousy or hatred but it doesn't matter either. It doesn't even matter - you're beautiful and you're a great dancer. Your name is Joy- and I love the line when you said they said "Joy, we don't want you to be here," because that means that they truly don't want to be joyful and it shows with their anger- that's their problem. You're beautiful~ and I want you to be anywhere you want to be

Joy! You are so amazing and doing so much for both countries, and really, the world, as a result. I can't believe the hate you experience, especially what happened in class. Hopefully they will understand one day how wrong they are. A lot of people would have handled it so poorly but you obviously did so awesome. You are so inspiring, truly. Whether you choose to stay in Russia, come back, or go somewhere else, you've already inspired so many and changed the way they see the world. ♡

I'm so sorry for what you're going through but it takes a strong person to take that BS and not quit. You are amazing and only big and wonderful things await you.

I find that if you give things a little time, the answer presents itself to you. In the mean time, try not to give so much power to what others say or think. I know that's easier said than done, but you are you and they are who they are and everyone had an opinion. Keep your chin up and don't let anyone steal your joy (pun intended) 😁

You must keep pushing through! I'm sure part of their mentality is that they hope that you will give up and leave. Don't let them have that satisfaction. If they didn't want Americans they wouldn't have chosen you to become a principle dancer! They just need to suck it up, the world is a vast place and loads of people from other countries move/work elsewhere. You can't help where you were born but they can help their attitude! Please stick with it, you do seem to have excellent friends there, just focus on that. You're such a beautiful dancer. Don't give up on your dream just because some stupid, jealous people can't handle it! You're such an inspiration, Joy. Hope you have fun in Hong Kong, look forward to the vlogs! :) Love from Scotland! :D x

I think you hit the nail on the head when you said it's jealousy. So many people would practically cut off their right arm to be able to live in the US, so I'm sure they just feel jealousy and bitterness toward you (I've heard the same exact stories from other Americans who have gone to live in Eastern European countries). Go where God wants you to be. You handled that situation with such grace and dignity. You really have such a beautiful heart, and your honesty and openness is so refreshing.

you don't need to put up with that! so many companies all around the world would be so happy to have you and treat you like the star you are! stay strong!!

Don't let them bully you .. you've made it on your own.. You're a star so all you need to do is shine

Joy, It is so admirable that you would be so candid about the antagonism you encountered from some members of the company. To digress for a moment, I would point out that in a time of war, perhaps the most dangerous assignment goes to the "point man". He is usually positioned well to the front of his patrol. Clearly, you have been "riding point". I can only surmise that you encountered a residue of the anti American sentiment that, in some measure, yet lingers from the days of Communist rule. But how courageous of you to persevere under "enemy fire". I harbor an enormous passion for ballet and for Russian dance and am hopelessly in love with the art form. Thank you for sharing your experiences and inviting us all in to your "living room" ! You have just inherited a new fan !

i dont think i could ever move so far away from my family i had a hard time just going to Los Angeles to be with my aunt for a week. but i know how you feel i got in a ballet company just last year they will all wisper behind my back and sometimes i might make a mistake and they make it a big deal as a first year im sure evan they made mistakes. but some times its good just to leave the situation.but i hope you know that you inspire me every day and i hope to be such a beautiful dancer like you i love takeing notes wile watching you dance to help little things i want to fix . love you keep working hard .

Joy it is so unfortunate that people with different variations of power in that company are being so negative just based on where you are from not what a wonderful hardworking person you are with amazing talent. I feel bad for them that they are so closed minded that they can not truly see you. I think this is a hard point in life when you have to decide where you should be. I feel that no matter where you are you will be a success. So, I think it's just up to you on whether you want to push forward at that company and show them you can take it no matter what or if you want to chose to find a company and place that really appreciates your skills. There is no shame in either option they are just choices and I think you will flourish either way you chose!

Be careful Joy. It sounds like jealousy, but bullying is damaging. I will pray for you. There was just something on FB about an American dancer that left the Marinsky for a movie role, but it sounded as if she had been bullied there. Have a great time in Hong Kong. You talent is such that your future is BRIGHT!!!

I dont think It was inmature of you expresing yourself in that way; I think its very hard to recieve this kind of critics right in your face, and I dare anyone to handle that without struggle. But you have achieved so much and it is so respectable what ever you choose to do! Hugs from Mexico :)

Joy, you are beyond strong, and through Christ all things are possible- this you know. I say: power through as long as you're safe and ultimately happy- you always take the high road and I so respect that. You've accomplished more than anyone has ever dared at such an early age...I love to see you continue to fulfill that dream, but pray on it, and I will certainly pray for you as well. Perhaps it may be time for you to conquer other parts of the world. :) I love and support and admire all that you do. I'm going to buy my Prima Bars and pray for you. Know that you're loved, and if there's anything your fan base can do to further support you, let me/us know and I'll back you 100%. I'm so sorry you had to go through this. Stay strong as you have through so many things. God is always with you. "Onwards & Upwards" right? :)

You are so sweet and so talented! I worry about you over there. This Vlog has been such a wonderful vehicle for you, you can move on and still make a living teaching and vlogging till you find your next company or performance outlet. I think its time for you to spread your wings and get out of that hostile environment before it gets worse. I admire your bravery and loyalty to the company that gave you so many opportunities, but I worry with them cutting you down so harshly now, how far they will take it, especially with you being on their home court. Please be safe and smart!! You are too sweet and talented, it would be terrible if something happened to you!

Dear Joy, I realize that this comment might be meaningless, but I pray and hope you know what a beautiful dancer you are. I remember watching a video of you (some news channel maybe?) as the first american student at the Bolshoi. I was completely awe struck of your extreme talent and worth ethic. You inspired me to push even harder in class, stretch and strengthen at home, give myself barre, anything to progress in my training. You are one of my favorite dancers and it deeply saddens me to hear of your woes at the Kremlin. I know you will find your niche somewhere because you are a STUNNING dancer and any ballet company would be lucky to have you..sending my prayers :)

Joy - I'm so sorry you're having to go through this difficult time. You are such a brave person - I can't imagine doing what you did - moving to Russia all on your own without knowing the language and establishing a life there. Remember how far you have come and how much you have in front of you, even though you're not sure where that might be. Pray about your situation and remember God knows everything that's going on with you down to the tiniest detail. "For I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you." Perhaps the trip to Hong Kong will give you some perspective and a much needed break from the negativity you're experiencing. I'll be praying for you too - from Illinois.

I LOVE the Prima Bars!!!!!

Joy you are an absolutely amazing dancer and person!!! I really admire your art work and whatever you have achieved both artistically and in life, going after your dream with such a passion. So dont let anyone's rudeness and racistic behavior get into you and make you feel sad. People who are rude to others, they have primarily problem with themselves!!

Joy don't show them that you are strong, prove it to YOURSELF. Forgive the ones that offend you, because that is the most valuable thing at the end of the day, for you not to become like them. And yes, they might be jealous for them to be in that country and you weren't but you have the talent too. Don't listen to toxic people, even if it's hard to. You are wonderful, a really inspiration for me!

Whatever decision you make, always know you can think on your feet. You don't need to do anything, go where you heart leads you.

How did you get that big bottle b12?! I'm deficient and they make me go to the pharmacy ever 2 weeks to pick it up! Which is going to be annoying in the fall at my middle of nowhere agriculture college!!! So jealous!

So much love for you, Joy. You absolutely do not deserve that behavior. ❤️

Oh Joy, sending so much love and prayers your way. I don't know what to say you should do because it's your life and you know yourself more than we do, but maybe just ask yourself what you really want, disregarding other influences and go from there.

Dear Joy, during the last weeks, I've seen all of your videos on youtube, I've read your website (sorry for my bad English, I'm german... ;o) and I became one of you biggest fans (supporter). I was so impressed of your past and how brave a young girl can be - going to Russia for living her dream at such a young age. It made me speechless, seeing what you've managed. I always wanted to write you, but today I think, it's time. I've never seen you so sad and it made my heart break... Please be sure, that all of this behaviour is made of jealousy. Russia for the Russian! And also the Russian ballett! You are too good for them - that makes jealous. They think it's their right to be the best, because they are in 'their' country. Stupid, so stupid... It's racial discrimination! How can I make you smile again... Could you come to Germany just to have fun and forget all of these bad people? ;o) We could see the German Ballett, we could eat some Prima Bars with a lot of Ice Cream ;o))) and I could do something for my vocabulary... ;o))) You are invited. :o) I wish I could do more for you, because even I don't know you personal, I am really proud of you. You're such an idol - for strength, power of endurance and optimism. Never give up, really. Start over again, I wish you all of the best, you deserve it. Take care, Joy! Angela

Joy, I just watched this video and I can tell you that I can relate and empathize entirely. I'm the first American to graduate from the Tallinn ballet school in Estonia at age 19. I too dealt with cultural hiccups and hostilities at times. Woo, I'll never forget one woman's tantrum towards me at the immigration office. Being so young, I couldnt figure out what I possibly did to make her attitude so hateful. Needless to say, their cultural directness can hurt. I can say though that it teaches you a lot. My advice would be to stay strong, dont let them bully you, and whatever you do, dont cry in front of them. It could very well be their way of testing you to see how much backbone you have and how thick you're skin is. If I had been in that situation, I would defend myself entirely. To call them out, you could nicely question their resentment/remarks and then make a nice lighthearted comment. Stay calm, sweet, and confident always. If you leave, then they win. Be confident in knowing who you are, and your skill level. You're a grown woman and you don't have to tolerate disrespect. While there is always more to learn, always remember that you've sacrificed 100x more than they ever have or will. Find out who your friends are, but kill everyone with kindness. Never let anyone kill your dreams or spirit. If it truly becomes a hostile, unsafe work environment then by all means, find a company who loves and appreciates your talent. But dont ever allow them to bring your "optimistic American spirit" (that is what my teacher said I had) to the unhappy level that they are on. "Merde!"

Я очень рад, что ты справилась с трудностями.Молодец, девчонка!

Joy you are amazing and just keep dancing don't anybody tell you what to do :-)

joy I am so sad. I also live in another country (not the country I was born) and is not easy. You are so good and strong. Don't let these people upset you. I hope things will be better

Joy you keep doing what you are doing. There are cultural issues at play here that have nothing to do with you, and jealousy! You are a professional and a beautiful dancer. Please keep your chin up friend.

You're still amazing Joy, you are not a nationality, you're a beautiful talented human being

This Vlog made me cry. Your internet friends love you so much and I wish you could come back to the states because you seemed so much happier in California, but I understand how hard you've work to establish yourself and follow your dream. I can relate to how you feel being a 20 something trying to make it in a professional world but also feeling like you don't belong at all. Whatever you end up deciding to do, I know you will be successful and stronger. Keep in mind sometimes dreams can change :)

Haters gonna hate....you must be blowing them away with your talent and that's the Lowest blows they can send your way. You do what you want but know the bullying may not ever stop. Your call

We have your back, Joy!!! Keep on dreaming on!