What is Happiness? By: Tali Novick

בס"ד

Ben Zoma famously writes in a mishnah in Pirkei Avot, "איזהו עשיר השמח בחלקו" “Who is rich? Someone who is happy with what they have” (Pirkei Avot 4:1). This means the path to true contentment, and to serving Hashem with the utmost passion, does not require a person to seek out more. Rather, it is to find happiness within the possessions that they already have. Additionally, the valuables that we possess are not only physical, but can be emotional and spiritual as well. After all, an exceptional education or a good friend are equally as valuable, if not more valuable, than physical pleasures.

Therefore, no matter what time period we live in and despite all the challenges we may have to face, it is crucial that we take a moment to appreciate what we have and to find the good in every item, every person, and in all the opportunities that come our way. By doing this, we will be able to obtain true happiness and serve Hashem in the best way possible.