Favorite Inspirational Quotes

I think I began learning long ago that those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.

Booker T. Washington

I’m not sure that giving up all the time I can to help others would make me very happy.  I have given money to help others and I have given my time and effort to help others.  I enjoyed both then.

I get a kick out of leaving very healthy tips around Christmas time and now and then throughout the year.  I love being able to send money to help any person or group I want.  I really liked delivering Meals on Wheels.  I like doing for others, family included, when it’s not asked or expected.

But I really can’t see being “happiest” doing a lot more for others.  What makes me happiest is peace and quiet, living in the countryside, and having plenty of time for reading.  Books and learning are what me happiest.  Maybe at my happiest I am not as happy as those who do the most for others but I am at my happiest.

Maybe that’s a sign I am a very selfish person but if I was not happy devoting myself altruistically to others, how does that have a positive impact on anything?  I truly believe that some people are very happy doing for others but I also believe that not everyone comes into this world built that way.

If I do what makes me happy, as long as it hurts no one else, then that is the best way for me to add to the positive energy of the world.  And I certainly won’t be guilt-tripped into thinking I have to sacrifice myself and my happiness for others.  My kids are grown and that time period is over where others take a priority to what I want.  My happiness is important too.

That doesn’t mean I am not glad that there are people who do for others.  They make the world a better place with all their goodness and giving.  And I wish them all the happiness in the world if that is their calling and their purpose.

Tags: Booker T. Washington