Joy

Let us live in joy, never hating those who hate us.
Let us live in freedom, without hatred even among
those who hate.

Let us live in joy, never falling sick like those
who are sick. Let us live in freedom, without
disease even among those who are ill.

Let us live in joy, never attached among those
who are selfishly attached. Let us live in freedom
even among those who are bound by selfish
attachments.

Let us live in joy, never hoarding things among
those who hoard. Let us live in growing joy like the
bright gods.

Conquest breeds hatred, for the conquered
live in sorrow. Let us be neither conqueror
nor conquered, and live in peace and joy.

There is no fire like lust, no sickness like
hatred, no sorrow like separateness, no joy
like peace. No disease is worse than greed,
no suffering worse than selfish passion. Know
this, and seek nirvana as the highest joy.

Health is the best gift, contentment the best
wealth, trust the best kinsman, nirvana the greatest
joy. Drink the nectar of the dharma in the depths
of meditation, and become free from fear and sin.

It is good to meet the wise, even better to live
with them. But avoid the company of the immature
if you want joy.

Keeping company with the immature is like
going on a long journey with an enemy. The company
of the wise is joyful, like a reunion with one's family.
Therefore, live among the wise, who are understanding,
patient, responsible, and noble. Keep their
company as the moon moves among the stars.

---The Dhammapada, chapter 8---