Skip to content

This is the true joy of life-the being used for a purpose…

“This is the true joy of life-the being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one, the being thoroughly worn out before you are thrown to the scrap-heap; the being a force of nature instead of a feverish, selfish clod of ailments and grievances.” quote by George Bernard Shaw
Download Open image
“This is the true joy of life-the being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one, the being thoroughly worn out before you are thrown to the scrap-heap; the being a force of nature instead of a feverish, selfish clod of ailments and grievances.”

George Bernard Shaw

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

True joy comes from serving a higher purpose, exhausting oneself for a noble cause rather than selfish concerns.

In simple terms: Purposeful service brings deep fulfillment.

Key Takeaway

Serve a cause larger than yourself.

Themes

purpose joy self‑sacrifice meaning

Mood

inspirational serious

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • career mission
  • artistic creation
  • activism

Key Concepts

existentialism ethics humanism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What purpose energizes you?
  • How to balance self‑care with service?
A Different Perspective

Self‑neglect can lead to burnout.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by George Bernard Shaw

Explore all 1,640 George Bernard Shaw quotes

More Ailments quotes

Browse all 72 Ailments quotes