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About this quote

What does it mean?
Happiness is found through empathy and recognizing the suffering of others rather than seeking personal pleasure.
In plain terms
God shows us unhappy people to teach us empathy instead of giving us easy happiness.
What can you take from it?
Find meaning by helping others who suffer.

Where it applies

  • charity
  • personal loss
  • volunteering

Putting it to work

  • helping others
  • listening to struggles
  • advocacy

Questions to consider

  • How do you define happiness?
  • Who needs your help today?

Another view

It implies suffering is necessary for happiness, which can be discouraging.

More from Swami Vivekananda

  1. When I asked God for intelligence He Gave Me Puzzles to Solve.

    Permalink to quote #202
  2. When I Asked God for Wealth He Showed Me How to Work Hard

    Permalink to quote #204
  3. When I Asked God for Strength He Gave Me Difficult Situations to Face

    Permalink to quote #201

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