One single gift acknowledged in gratefulness has the power to dissolve the ties of our alienation.
David Steindl-RastRead
Joy is that kind of happiness that does not depend on what happens.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Joy is an intrinsic form of happiness that is not influenced by external circumstances.
This quote by David Steindl-Rast emphasizes the idea that true joy is a deeper, more stable form of happiness that is not reliant on external events or conditions. It suggests that while fleeting happiness often comes from outside sources, joy arises from within, allowing individuals to maintain a sense of well-being regardless of their situation.
Themes
JoyHappinessInner PeaceContentmentWell-Being
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a motivational speech about finding inner happiness.
More from David Steindl-Rast
All quotes βThere is no closer bond than the one that gratefulness celebrates, the bond between giver and thanksgiver. Everything is a gift. Grateful living is a celebration of the universal give-and-take of life, a limitless yes to belonging. Can our world survive without gratefulness? Whatever the answer, one thing is certain: to say an unconditional yes to the mutual belonging of all beings will make this a more joyful world. This is the reason why Yes is my favorite synonym for God.
David Steindl-RastRead
As I express my gratitude, I become more deeply aware of it. And the greater my awareness, the greater my need to express it. What happens here is a spiraling ascent, a process of growth in ever expanding circles around a steady center.
David Steindl-RastRead
By looking up, by raising our eyes above our limited horizon, we are more likely to perceive the blessings hidden in affliction.
David Steindl-RastRead
Any place is sacred ground, for it can become a place of encounter with the divine Presence.
David Steindl-RastRead
One can learn to focus on "opportunity" as the gift within every given moment. This attitude towards life always improves the situation. Even in times of sickness, someone who habitually practices grateful living will look for the opportunity that a given moment offers and use it creatively.
David Steindl-RastRead
Similar quotes
Don't postpone your happiness until some perfect future date. Be happy now, tomorrow will take care of itself.
Sri Sri Ravi ShankarRead
As you identify less and less with the βmeβ, you will be more at ease with everybody and with everything. Do you know why? Because you are no longer afraid of being hurt or not liked. You no longer desire to impress anyone. Can you imagine the relief when you don't have to impress anybody anymore? Oh, what a relief. Happiness at last!
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Obviously, circumstances alone do not make us happy or unhappy. It is the way we react to circumstances that determines our feelings. Jesus said that the kingdom of heaven is within you. That is where the kingdom of hell is, too.
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The more we care for the happiness of others, the greater is our own sense of well-being.
Dalai LamaRead
Growing up, I was utterly oblivious to the fact that Mom was teaching me all that. But I was instantly aware of her final lesson, which was hidden in her notes and leters. As I read them I began to understand that in the end you are the only one who can make yourself happy. More important, Mom showed me that it is never too late to find out how to do it.
Ruth ReichlRead
The feeling of being happy or unhappy rarely depends on our absolute state, but on our perception of the situation, on our capacity to be satisfied with what we have.
Dalai LamaRead