The two sentiments that have the most influence on every human being who passes through this earthly plane are joy and pain. Each can be a prime motivator or deterrent to physical or spiritual progress, dependent upon what causes each.
Then there is the distinction between joy and happiness. Happiness is a momentary emotion generally based on contentment, fortune, well-being and any number of pleasant circumstance, most of which are of temporary duration. Joy on the other hand, when rooted in spirituality, supersedes the changes and chances of this transitory world.
We are currently entering into the season of Joy to the World, in the midst of dire economic restraints and uncertainty throughout the nation and abroad. A time becoming more painful to more people, for various reasons. Increasing numbers have jobs that are lost or threatened, while many others are faced with increasing loneliness during this long festive season, with failing health and agility, or with memories of lost loved ones whether recent or past. Yet all the sorrow and grief that exist comes from the world of matter. The spiritual world bestows only joy – regardless of circumstances, we are reminded in the Baha’i Holy Writings.
“Tests and trials, we are told, only cause agitation (and pain) to weak hearts. But the pure souls, a hundred thousand tests are but to them like a mirage, imagination and shadow…”
“Every believer needs to remember that an essential characteristic of this physical world is that we are constantly faced with trials, tribulations, hardship and sufferings and that by overcoming them, we achieve moral and spiritual development… Life is a process of trials and testing and (contrary to popular belief) these are good for us, give us stamina and teach us to rely on God. The more difficulties one sees in this world the more perfect one becomes. The more you plough and dig the ground the more fertile it becomes. The more fire you put to god the purer it becomes. “With fire We test gold and with gold We test servants,” states the Baha’i Holy Writings.
Therefore during this blessed holiday season of joy, may we each “Lift up our eyes unto the hills from whence cometh our help (and joy). The Spiritual Equation: love + gratitude = joy.
Have a Happy and Joyful Holiday Season!
