"我们需要快乐就像我们需要空气"

Joy is just as essential to our well-being as the air we breathe. Think about it for a second. Without air, we wouldn't survive. Our bodies would shut down, and life would cease. Similarly, without joy, our spirits can wither, and life can seem like a monotonous grind.

The idea here is that joy isn't a luxury—it's a necessity. It’s not just a perk you get on special occasions; it’s something you need every day to truly feel alive. This notion helps us understand that joy should be a priority in our lives, not just an afterthought.

This concept has been expressed in various ways throughout history. Consider the times of hardship during the Great Depression, when people found solace in simple joys like music, dancing, and community gatherings. Despite financial and social struggles, joy provided the strength to endure. It wasn't about the absence of problems but about finding those pockets of happiness amid the chaos. The same goes for personal times of hardship. Imagine going through a tough breakup or losing a job. What often pulls us through is the joy we find in the little things—spending time with friends, engaging in hobbies, or even a favorite meal.

Take, for example, the story of John, a high-powered executive who was always stressed out, working long hours, and never taking time for himself. John thought that if he just worked hard enough and made enough money, he’d eventually be happy. But all the stress led to health issues and strained relationships. It wasn't until he started making time for the things that brought him joy—like playing guitar, going on weekend hikes, and having family dinners—that he noticed a significant change. Not only did he feel better physically and mentally, but he also became more productive at work and happier in his relationships.

So how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by identifying what brings you joy. Is it painting, reading, or maybe some quiet time in nature? Make those things a non-negotiable part of your daily routine. Think of it like your oxygen mask—you need to put it on first before you can help others. Joy fuels you, keeps you going, and makes life worth living.

Imagine you're a parent juggling work, kids, and household chores. Your days are packed, and it feels like there's no room for you. But think about this: if you take just 15 minutes a day to do something you love, you’ll be more patient, more present, and more positive. Maybe it's a quick yoga session, a chapter of a good book, or a call to a friend. Those tiny bursts of joy can transform your entire day.

Joy isn't something that happens to you. It's something you actively create. So, take a deep breath—like you're filling your lungs with air—and make room for joy in your life. Your soul will thank you.