This is the true joy in life, the being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; the being thoroughly worn out before you are thrown on the scrap heap; the being a force of Nature instead of a feverish selfish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy.

—George Bernard Shaw

During [these] periods of relaxation after concentrated intellectual activity, the intuitive mind seems to take over and can produce the sudden clarifying insights which give so much joy and delight.

—Fritjof Capra

The joy of a spirit is the measure of its power.

—Ninon de Lenclos

I define joy as a sustained sense of well-being and internal peace — a connection to what matters.

—Oprah Winfrey

Winning is important to me, but what brings me real joy is the experience of being fully engaged in whatever I’m doing.

 —Phil Jackson

Do not judge men by mere appearances; for the light laughter that bubbles on the lip often mantles over the depths of sadness, and the serious look may be the sober veil that covers a divine peace and joy.

—Edward Chapin

Give not over thy soul to sorrow; and afflict not thyself in thy own counsel. Gladness of heart is the life of man and the joyfulness of man is length of days.

—Ecclesiastes

Joy can be real only if people look upon their life as a service, and have a definite object in life outside themselves and their personal happiness.

—Leo Tolstoy

I’ve grown to realize the joy that comes from little victories is preferable to the fun that comes from ease and the pursuit of pleasure.

—Lawana Blackwell

Real joy comes not from ease or riches or from the praise of men, but from doing something worthwhile.

—Wilfred Grenfell

I sometimes wonder whether all pleasures are not substitutes for joy.

—C.S. Lewis

One joy shatters a hundred griefs.                       —Chinese proverb