If everything is empty (and this is the barrier to becoming a real Buddhist) then where is the joy in life, and the sense of purpose?

In this one question I know I will find the reason that all is looking so real in my mind, even though I know it is mostly just my distorted perception.

Our faith in things, as we think they are*, is possibly the foundation for movement**.
*(fata morgana), **(energy directed at changing our unhappy circumstance)

However, choking the ego is NOT choking one self. When choking your ego (that thinks it is you) you are only giving life to your divine being.  Don’t be afraid.