Good morning Bitachon of the day ❤️
If you ask the average person what they want in life, they will likely answer with one word: happiness. Many people’s lives are centered around this goal. The big decisions, such as who we marry, where we live, the jobs we take, the people we interact with, as well as the smaller decisions, such as what we eat, how we dress, or how much sleep we get, are often made with the goal of attaining a greater level of joy and happiness. However, we often find people who appear set up for happiness living a life stuck in misery, and people who seem destined for a life of anguish living lives of great happiness.
What is the source of happiness, and how can we achieve this elusive state?
In Parashas Bechukosai, the Torah lists the many curses that will befall Klal Yisrael if they do not observe Hashem’s commandments. Later on in the Torah, when describing these terrible curses, Hashem informs us that we will receive these punishments because we did not serve Him with happiness. Additionally, the pasuk in Tehillim states, “Ivdu es Hashem b’simchah—Serve Hashem with happiness.” It seems, then, that happiness is, in fact, a Jewish value.
When you have many struggles in life it’s very hard to feel happiness, how do you remove sadness and anger from your mind and vocabulary.
Sometimes people have everything they want and still don’t feel happy they still have this lack of something that is missing for them to achieve their ultimate happiness. And the people that don’t have everything and are struggling are happy. How is that possible?
People who focus on external achievements and material possessions often find that these do not bring lasting happiness. True contentment usually comes from intrinsic values such as relationships, personal growth, and a sense of purpose. Those who struggle may appreciate the small joys and victories in life more deeply. Gratitude can significantly enhance one's sense of well-being and happiness.
Happiness often stems from having a sense of purpose. Those striving toward a goal, even amidst challenges, might feel more fulfilled than those who feel they have no further goals to achieve. People with fewer resources may develop a resilient mindset, focusing on what they have rather than what they lack. This perspective shift can foster happiness even in difficult circumstances.
Understanding these factors can help us realize that happiness is not solely dependent on external circumstances but rather on our internal mindset and values.
While dating my husband, I lived in Brooklyn for eight months. Across the street from where I was living, a family with nine kids lived in a three-bedroom house. You might think that house must be crowded and chaotic, with fights over bathroom time and privacy. On the contrary, all the cousins wanted to sleep there, so on Shabbat, there were over 15 kids sleeping over. That house was overflowing with so much happiness and joy, welcoming anyone who wanted to come. I always thought how amazing it was, and I was so inspired by it. I never saw the mother without a smile on her face.
This shows true happiness and love of life. Whatever circumstances you are in, you make the best of it by thanking Hashem for everything He has given you and being grateful for it.
May we find true happiness in our lives and embrace it with the hand of Hashem. Amen.🙏
Wishing you all a wonderful day ❤️