Tag Archives: cheerfulness

The most certain sign of wisdom is cheerfulness.

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“The most certain sign of wisdom is cheerfulness.”

—Michel de Montaigne, 16th Century French Renaissance philosopher

Image from Unsplash by Allen Vinicius

Today’s quote is a reminder that true wisdom isn’t just about knowledge or intellect — it’s about maintaining a joyful and positive outlook on life.

Cheerfulness reflects an inner peace and understanding that challenges and setbacks are part of the human experience.

Wise individuals embrace life’s complexities with grace and optimism, inspiring those around them.

In today’s fast-paced world Montaigne’s words encourage us to cultivate happiness as a sign of deep wisdom, showing that a cheerful spirit can illuminate even the darkest moments.

Ultimately, wisdom and joy go hand in hand, creating a fulfilling and balanced life.

EXERCISE:

In what ways can you see cheerfulness as a sign of wisdom?

How can you find more joy in simple things and approach each day with a lighter touch?

You find yourself refreshed by the presence of cheerful people

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“You find yourself refreshed by the presence of cheerful people. Why not make an earnest effort to confer that pleasure on others?”

—Carolyn Fansler, ElderShare Program Manager at Central Pennsylvania Food Bank

Image from Unsplash by Tyler Nix

Over the holidays I had extra time to be with family and friends, and for a bigger helping of entertainment.

One quiet afternoon while others were napping and digesting their last meal, I finally got a chance to begin watching the Apple comedy, Ted Lasso.

After only a handful of episodes I can see why it is a fan favorite.

Ted’s cheerful personality and warm “good old boy” charm definitely smooths the rough edges on virtually everyone he meets.

EXERCISE:

Who are the cheerful people in your life that bring smiles to your face and brighten your world?

To what degree would you be mentioned on the list of others as you try to lasso their lives?

You find yourself refreshed by the presence of cheerful people

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“You find yourself refreshed by the presence of cheerful people. Why not make an earnest effort to confer that pleasure on others?”

—Lydia Maria Francis Child, 19th Century American Social Reformer

Image from Unsplash by Tyler Nix

Who are the people in your life that always exude a cheerful disposition? Who are those that smile at you and seem to be genuinely happy to see you whenever you connect?

When you think of them how do you feel? What sensations do you experience, and how does your mood and attitude shift as you anticipate each encounter?

Shift things around for a minute and consider how many of these people would put you on their list of happy, peppy people? How do you brighten the room, or pull down the room darkening curtains when you show up?

EXERCISE:

Look up the books FISH and Make Their Day to see how you can brighten the lives of others. Don’t be surprised if you benefit from the boomerang of cheerfulness that comes your way in return.