It is written that “a joyful heart (לֵב שָׂמֵחַ) is good medicine” (Prov. 17:22). Where it says, “Serve the LORD with gladness” (Psalm 100:2), the sages note that “with gladness” (בְּשִׂמְחָה) contains the same letters as the word “thought” (מַחֲשָׁבָה), which suggests that happiness is found by thinking worthy thoughts. As the apostle admonished: “Think on these things” (Phil. 4:8). We find spiritual happiness when we choose to be thankful. This is called hakarat tovah (הַכָּרַת טוֹבָה), a phrase that means recognizing or being aware of the good. Cultivate a sense of wonder. Look at the sky often, for it is the “daily bread of the eyes.” Albert Einstein once said, “There are two ways to live your life; one is as though nothing is a miracle, and the other is as though everything is.” Happiness is a choice, a decision to see the good, to open your eyes to wonder, and to turn away from negative, fearful visions. The Torah of the LORD rejoices the heart (Psalm 19:8); let the heart of those who seek the LORD be glad (Psalm 105:3).
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