by Steve Goodier
MotherTere sa teaches us an important lesson about happiness. She was one of those people who emanated joy. Born in 1910 in Skopje , Macedonia , she felt called as a teenager to move to Calcutta , India
Shortly after moving toCalcutta Tere sa went on to establish homes for the destitute dying in numerous cities. But in spite of devoting her life to people in such dire straits, she radiated joy and happiness.
This incredible woman was once interviewed by Malcolm Muggeridge from theBBC News. He asked her an unusual question: "Mother Tere sa, the thing I noticed about you and the hundreds of sisters who now form your team is that you all look so happy. Is that a put-on?"
Here was a woman who had none of the things we like to think of as bringing happiness: a home, a family, prosperity. Rather, she lived in near-poverty and spent her time wiping dirt and various body fluids from half-dead cancer and leprosy victims – and appeared to be blissfully happy. She replied, "Oh no, not at all. Nothing makes you happier than when you really reach out in mercy to someone who is badly hurt."
She would agree that happiness does not come from acquiring, but is a by-product of giving: time, money, love. Do you want a life of joy? Start by giving.
Mother
Shortly after moving to
This incredible woman was once interviewed by Malcolm Muggeridge from the
Here was a woman who had none of the things we like to think of as bringing happiness: a home, a family, prosperity. Rather, she lived in near-poverty and spent her time wiping dirt and various body fluids from half-dead cancer and leprosy victims – and appeared to be blissfully happy. She replied, "Oh no, not at all. Nothing makes you happier than when you really reach out in mercy to someone who is badly hurt."
She would agree that happiness does not come from acquiring, but is a by-product of giving: time, money, love. Do you want a life of joy? Start by giving.
