THE JOYS OF LIFE

Life can be filled with joyous moments. Joy can come from working the land, agriculture, which affords healthful toil and a reward to the diligent husbandman; the chase of the hunt maintains the vigour of those who rejoice in abundant physical energy. The scholar may forget present troubles in the society of the great men of the past, and the poet may enjoy in the ever fresh beauties of nature. The mutual affection between husband and wife is enjoyable, and likewise the affection between parents and children; the company of friends and fellow-students is enjoyable and lightens labour and brightens the spirit.

Country people enjoy their simple games and festivals, and stories round their living rooms. Religious worship lifts rich and poor above the distraction of present cares.

But the two most enjoyable kinds of life that is impossible to destroy is the enjoyment of the high-souled thinker who is raised above the ordinary course of human affairs, and that of the simple countryman who has never risen to higher desires than the satisfaction of the commonest needs of man. 

St. Synesius

(12-29-02)