Joy in the Happiness of Others
This evening, I learned a new word and a new way of being, or rather, a way of trying to become. I had posted a post on D-Buzz and Twitter (X) and thought no more about it. I went back to post another post and discovered a reply that read, “Another term for this is Sympathetic Joy.”
My original post had read as follows:
Let’s normalize applauding others’ success without questioning our own worth. Joy shared is joy doubled. 👏🌟 #CelebrateOthers #cwh
https://d.buzz/@gregscloud/o8icoxiucvy6utdol1n1y5
What is Mudita?
It’s a good question. I wondered the same thing and found an answer. Someone on D-Buzz shared a link to an article explaining Mudita. After reading it, I got excited. Things have been chaotic for me for a long time, causing a lot of stress and disharmony.
I discovered that in Buddhism, Mudita is important and part of the Four Immeasurables (Brahma-vihara). Mudita is about thinking of all people, including those we might be angry with or dislike, as if they were our good friends. It’s a practice of seeing others in a positive light, rather than as enemies or adversaries.
We will stop seeing them as enemies or foes, and any negative feelings we had towards them will be replaced with sympathetic joy. We will interact with them in a different way, keeping our peace. It’s really great, isn’t it? (By the way, it’s cool!)
Here is a little of what I learned from the website that @chrisrice was kind enough to leave a link to:
Mudita Definition
Mudita, a Sanskrit and Pali word, means taking joy in the happiness of others. This is in contrast to jealousy and schadenfreude, which are rooted in selfishness and malice. Mudita is an inner wellspring of joy that can be felt towards all beings.
One can begin cultivating Mudita by developing a sense of sympathetic joy towards a cheerful friend and gradually extending it to encompass all sentient beings. Although the definition of Mudita primarily focuses on finding joy in others’ good fortune, it is often expanded to include the element of empathy.
An Antidote to Boredom and Indifference
In this broader definition, Mudita acts as an antidote to boredom and indifference by instilling a sense of energized concern. It has the power to counteract the complacency that often accompanies a lack of interest or engagement.
Mudita, or sympathetic joy, encourages appreciation for others, compassion, loving-kindness, and enlightenment. It acknowledges the interconnectedness of all beings and embraces universal love and understanding.
Contrary to popular belief, enlightenment can be found in everyday life. By engaging with the world and radiating joy, we can create a serene and fearless mindset that leads to enlightenment. Spreading joy is a transformative force that benefits others and ourselves.
Less Stressed
So I feel a little lighter, less stressed, just from someone sharing a new word and an article with me. I intend to try and deepen my understanding of the topic.
Thank You Chris!
Image inspired by this post! #cwh