I Choose Joy

"Do not look for rest in any pleasure, because you were not created for pleasure, you were created for joy. And if you don't know the difference between pleasure and joy you have not yet begun to live."
-Thomas Merton

Joy and pleasure both make you feel good. They are also both addictive. But I would much rather live a life filled with joy, than a life with an abundance of pleasure.

Joy comes from being constructive.
Joy has no negative side effects.
Joy has spiritual dimensions.
Joy requires effort.
Joy lasts.