Four Reasons to Be Happy

by Cindi Sutter, Founder & Editor Spirited Table®  - By Yanki Tauber - find more from Yanki at - Articles by Yanki Tauber

1) Because it’s a good way to get things done.

To quote the Chassidic classic Tanya, by Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi (1745–1812): “Just like in the case of two people wrestling, each trying to throw down the other, if one of them moves with sloth and lethargy, he will be easily defeated and felled, even if he is stronger than his fellow. So, too, in battling one’s evil inclination, one can prevail over it . . . only with alacrity that comes from joy, and from a heart that is free and cleansed from every trace of worry and sadness.” Applies to wrestling, moral battles and everything in between.

2) Because it’s a good thing to do.

Why should joy be just a tool, a means to an end? It’s a good thing in its own right, a better way to be. And it’s not that difficult to achieve. Just focus on all the good things you have and are a part of, and on how much more real and enduring they are than the not-such-good things. So, even if the latter are taking center stage in your life, they don’t belong there. Push them off, and bring on the real players.

For two more reasons to be happy click here!