“If We Seek True Happiness, We Must Expend Our Energies For Purposes Larger Than Our Own Self-Interests”

TheDiscipleMD

Spencer W. Kimball counseled us:

“I know a man whose every thought through three quarters of a century had been for and of himself. … He had sought to keep his life for himself, and to gather all the good things of life for his own development and enjoyment. Strangely enough, trying to keep his life for himself, … he has shrunk, has lost his friends, and his own people shun him as a bore.

And now, as life is ebbing out gradually, he finds himself standing alone, forsaken, bitter, unloved, and unsung; and with self-pity, he can still think of only one person, himself. He has sought to save for himself his time, talents, and his means. He has lost the abundant life.

On the other hand, I know another man who has never given thought to himself. His every desire was for the protection and pleasure of those about him. No task was too great, no sacrifice too much for him to make for his fellowmen. His means brought relief from physical suffering; his kind work and thoughtfulness brought comfort and cheer and courage. Wherever people were in distress, he was on hand, cheering the discouraged, burying the dead, comforting the bereaved, and proving himself a friend in need. His time, his means, and his energies were lavished upon those needing assistance. Having given himself freely, by that same act he has added to his mental, physical, and moral stature until today he stands in his declining years a power for good, an example and an inspiration to many. He has developed and grown until he is everywhere acclaimed, loved, and appreciated. He has given life and in a real way has truly found the abundant life.

There is great security in spirituality, and we cannot have spirituality without service!

If we seek true happiness, we must expend our energies for purposes larger than our own self-interests.” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball, (2006), 79–8)

There is no question that when we are in the service of our fellowman, we gain a joy and satisfaction that uplifts and enriches our lives.

 

 




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