If I am happy in spite of my deprivations, if my happiness is so deep that it is a faith, so thoughtful that it becomes a philosophy of life. If, in short, I am an optimist, my testimony to the creed of optimism is worth hearing.
Helen KellerRead
What is the good of life if its chief element, and that which must always be its chief element, is odious? No, the only true economy is to arrange so that your daily labor shall be itself a joy.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Life should be enjoyable and fulfilling rather than burdensome.
Edward Carpenter emphasizes the importance of finding joy in one's daily activities. He argues that if life’s fundamental aspect is unpleasant, then it loses its value. True fulfillment comes from arranging our lives in such a way that our work and daily labor bring us happiness rather than dread.
Themes
JoyHappinessWorkLifeLabor
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about work-life balance, you might say, 'What is the good of life if its chief element is odious?' to emphasize the importance of finding joy in daily tasks.
Similar quotes
Pay close attention to the particular thoughts you use to deprive yourself of happiness.
Byron KatieRead
When you first get money, you buy all these things so no one thinks you're mean, and you spread it around. You get a chauffeur and you find yourself thrown around the back of this car and you think, I was happier when I had my own little car! I could drive myself!
Paul MccartneyRead
I am totally free to choose thoughts of joy. It is my Divine right to do so.
Louise HayRead
Obviously, there were ways to have made a lot more money and to have had more leisure. But I wouldn't choose that. I feel rich in ways that are unique and that I would never trade for tens of millions of dollars in the bank.
Bryan StevensonRead
I sat, a solitary man, In a crowded London shop, An open book and empty cup On the marble table-top. While on the shop and street I gazed My body of a sudden blazed; And twenty minutes more or less It seemed, so great my happiness, That I was blessed and could bless.
William Butler YeatsRead