Joy

​To be joyful is one of life’s precious gifts. In times of joy, we feel our strength is more vital and our intellect keener. Joy is a shield against pain and a product of sacrifice. Abdu’l-Baha tells us that “to attain eternal happiness one must suffer. He who has reached the state of self-sacrifice has true joy.” Instead of being opposites, then, it seems that joy and pain are interdependent. We have to understand and experience pain so that we are able to appreciate what it means to have joy. Helping others in service is the key to joy. Knowing that while we are alive, there is always an opportunity to help - no matter our circumstances. One of our videos this week, the Joy of Service, highlights this as a mother shares her reflections, “When I look back on my life, the most beautiful time I remember was when I was making other people happy.” The sentiment behind this lovely reflection is something we can all draw inspiration from as we search for more joy in our own lives and a great concept to explore with others who may be seeking some joy of their own.