One of the sanest, surest, and most generous joys of life comes from being happy over the good fortune
of others.
--Archibald Rutledge, Outdoor writer, poet laureate
It costs nothing . . . it is easy to do . . . it grows the more it is given. What is it? It is the unconditional
display to others of our happiness for their successes, triumphs, and personal “bests.” It is given without
any regrets or self-pity. It is done in joyfulness for another human being and their achievements. What
could be easier? Nevertheless, being the complex people we are, we find ourselves filled at times with
the “poor me” attitude when we see someone succeed at something that we wish we had done. “Oh, if
only it could have been me,” we say. Instead of being inspired by the person and their achievement, we
become bogged down in our own self-pity. Ok, knock it off! That's right . . . just knock it off! What we
do not realize is that in honoring the achievements of others, we also honor ourselves. How so? Because
by this action we show support for the person and this in turn can become support for us in achieving our
goals. We can aspire to heights by following a path that others blazed. We can learn from them. We can
also be inspired to climb to heights that others have not, because we see and support those who went
where no one dared. We see that anything we set out mind to do is possible because others have done the
impossible. We can learn from others and their successes. By showing our support for others, we build
energy for ourselves. By regretting their successes, we come to a halt.
However, an even more important reason for showing our happiness and support for others success--no
matter how small that success may be--is that we may help that person achieve even more. Our
encouragement can light fires in them to pursue further goals. It may come at just the right time--perhaps
a time when they are at a decisive point. A few simple words of happiness at their success and
encouragement for the future, can do magic. Wouldn't you like to have others express their happiness for
you when you have succeeded at something? Or would you rather have someone put you down for your
accomplishments? The Golden Rule is still one of the best “rules” ever written.
So be truly happy for others and who knows, you too may feel unexpected happiness. Try it!
Blessings and love,
Allen Schmeltz
