Pope Francis is truly one of the most inspiring and relatable figures in the history of Catholicism, but his wisdom extends beyond religion. Regardless of your background or beliefs, you can definitely find some encouragement from his advice about how to add more joy into your life.
According to UCatholic.com, the Pope shared his top ten secrets to living a happier life in an interview with Viva, an Argentinian publication.
1. Live and let live
The Pope believes we should all live life moving forward, while allowing others to do the same. Do not judge or think yourself better than others. In the same way, do not be overcome with self-pity or jealousy. Their journey is not your own.
2. Be open and generous towards others
One key to add more joy to your life is to open yourself up to others. Be open and generous; do not close yourself up, as this could lead to selfishness and self-centeredness.
3. Live life calmly
Using the popular Argentinian literary work Don Segundo Sombra, which was published in the 1920s, the Pope urges us to proceed with calmness through life. The story revolves around a rebellious young man, who changes his ways when he meets a mentor he admires, who inspires the young man to commit himself to a passion that will define his life.
4. Have a healthy sense of leisure
Young children should be taught to truly enjoy art and literature, which are subjects that do not only sharpen their minds, but it strengthens their heart’s capacity for love and compassion.
The Pope believes the consumerist culture has only brought stress and anxiety.
5. Do no work on Sundays
Despite complicated work schedules, the Pope believes parents should always make time to play with their children. If their schedule permits it, Sundays should be devoted to family.
What’s more, he believes that disconnecting from gadgets and turning the TV off during mealtimes is an essential part of adding more joy to the home.
photo: dreamstime
6. Help young people find dignified jobs
Adults should strive to work together in creating innovative opportunities for young people. According to Pope Francis, it is not enough to feed them. The key to adding more joy to your life is helping them find the “dignity in work” and in helping provide for their home.
7. Care for nature
Respecting the environment and caring for it is another way we can all be happier. The destruction of the environment over the years is one of the biggest problems of humanity.
“I think a question that we’re not asking ourselves is: ‘Isn’t humanity committing suicide with this indiscriminate and tyrannical use of nature?'” the Pope was quoted as saying.
8. Do not be a negative person
“Needing to talk badly about others indicates low self-esteem. That means, ‘I feel so low that instead of picking myself up I have to cut others down,’” Pope Francis shared. “Letting go of negative things quickly is healthy.”
9. Respect the beliefs of others
The Pope warns against proselytizing, or trying to convince others to change their religion, beliefs, or opinions.
Being judgmental towards others “paralyzes us,” says the pope. It hinders meaningful communication. Instead, he urges us to strive for openness and understanding at all times.
10. Be a peacemaker
“We are living in a time of many wars,” said the Pope, adding that “the call for peace must be shouted. Peace sometimes gives the impression of being quiet, but it is never quiet, peace is always proactive.”
He believes we all can do our part in promoting peace. This way, we are able to help create a kinder world for the next generation.
sources: UCatholic.com, CatholicRegister.org
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