don’t enjoy for a few years, perhaps, but there will come a time when it starts to build resentment. We are programmed to pursue contentment;

Sometimes we view our current life circumstances through the lens of previous negative experiences. Comparing good with bad colors the good. When we carry anger, fear, or sadness from the past into the present, it makes room for its continued influence.

Only when we shift our focus from our personal productivity and achievements to our unconditional bond with G-d do we have a framework for consistent joy. Ego-driven achievements are dependent on external expectations and circumstances. G-d’s unconditional love for us is not dependent on anything. A soul-based life is rooted in the bliss of “being”

It’s not enough to be good at what you do; the key to success is loving what you do.

is judged and valued on its intellectual merits alone, not on its practical applicability. Therefore, in the secular world, the merit of philosophers and scholars is not related to or measured by their personal behavior. How they live is deemed irrelevant to their intellectual discoveries and contributions.

Not only does consciously crafting a positive demeanor impact our own joy and positivity levels, but as a side effect, our company will be more enjoyable and desirable to others due to the magnetic power of positivity.

“Once, when I was a young girl, my father318 took me for a walk in the park. He sat me down on a bench and began telling me about Divine Providence.319 ‘Every time’—said Father—‘something causes us to deviate from our normal routine, there is a Divinely ordained reason for this; every time we see something unusual, there is a purpose in why we’ve b

go of socializing with individuals who are negative or cynical, or who make you feel inadequate, insecure, drain your energy, or bring out the worst in you. Even if an interaction with such a person seems enjoyable and exciting in the moment, sense how you feel afterward.

and even if it seems minimal. This is how you inspire change.”