Many things that we must do are difficult. If we give up easily and don't try, we will be unhappy. If we keep trying, no matter how long it takes us to succeed, we will feel happy and satisfied. For example, learning to read is very hard at first. But when we learn how to read, we feel happy because it helps us do other things.

Also, learning how to acquire vocational skills is very hard at first. But when we learn how to master the craft we feel fulfilled and happy because it enhances our sense of invention and creativity. This is the true sense of contributing to the constructive processes of society.

"The one in pursuit of anything must undergo difficulties and hardships until the object in view is attained...." Abdul Baha

Hardship Leading To Happiness

In the Baha'i Writings, we are reminded that we must ever be happy no matter what earthly conditions surround us:

"Men who suffer not, attain no perfection".

" The realm of joy hath been ushered in be not sorrowful! The hidden mystery hath been made manifest be not disheartened! (Baha'u'llah, Tabernacle of Unity)

It is also explained that suffering and hardship are an unavoidable part of physical life and can be assets for personal and communal spiritual growth and lead to a happier existence.

"Physical pain is a necessary accompaniment of all human existence and as such is unavailable. As long as there will be life on earth, there will be also suffering, although an inescapable reality, can nevertheless be utilized as a means for the attainment of happiness.

(Shoghi Effendi-Coñnpilations, Lights of Guidance P.280

" From the beginning of time sorrow and anxiety, regret and tribulations, have always been the lot of every loyal servant of God. Ponder this in thine heart and consider how very true it is... (Compilations, Bahiyyih Khanum page 5)

But the Holy Writings also teach us that hardship and tests are benefits from God and means for our spiritual progress. Our greatest spiritual growth and development does not happen during times of prosperity and comfort, they occur rather during times of hardship and suffering.

Keep Trying even though it's tough.

In this story, the tortoise keeps trying even though he must work hard.

The story of the Hare and the Tortoise.

The Hare was telling all his friends about what a fast runner he was. I have never lost a race. Who wants to race with me and try his luck?

The Tortoise said I will try. The Hare laughed and said, I could dance around you all the way.

Don't feel proud until you have won, said the Tortoise.

So they agreed where they would race. The race began. The Hare quickly ran out of sight, but he soon stopped. He was so sure that he would win that he lay down to rest.

The Tortoise walked and walked. It was hard work, but he would finish the race. He would not rest.

When the Hare woke up, he saw the Tortoise about to get to the finish line. There was no way Hare could win the race now no matter how fast he ran.

All the animals cheered for Tortoise.

Be a Happy and Joyful Being

Following the laws of God makes us happy, because God knows what is best for us. When we have everything that we want, it is easy to be happy. It is harder to be happy when we have many troubles, but we must try.

A Story About Abdul Baha

Abdul Baha was in prison most of His life. It was a terrible place, but Be said that He was always happy. He said that life was very difficult in prison. But, at the end of each day, each person would tell the funniest thing that happened during the day. Sometimes it was hard to find something funny, but they would always laugh until the tears rolled down their faces.

Happiness, He said, does not depend on where you are or what you have.