"نمت وحلمت أن الحياة كانت فرحا. استيقظت ورأيت أن الحياة كانت خدمة. تصرفت وإذا بالخدمة كانت فرحا."

The essence of this quote is that the true joy in life doesn’t come from passive dreaming, but from active service to others. Initially, we may imagine that happiness is something that just happens to us—like a dream filled with joy. But when we truly wake up to reality, we realize that genuine fulfillment comes from serving others. And, in the act of serving, we discover that this kind of joy is far more profound and lasting.

Rabindranath Tagore, the author of this quote, was an Indian poet, philosopher, and artist. He was deeply involved in both the cultural and political landscapes of his time, advocating for India's independence and promoting education and social reform. Tagore’s life was a living testament to this philosophy. He didn’t just sit back and dream about a better world; he actively worked to create one. His establishment of the Visva-Bharati University in West Bengal is a testament to his commitment to education and service.

Think about someone working in a community garden. They might start out thinking it’s just a way to get some fresh air and enjoy a hobby. But as they plant seeds, water the plants, and eventually see them bloom, they begin to realize that their efforts are feeding families and beautifying the neighborhood. The act of working in the garden becomes more than just a pastime—it turns into a source of deep, genuine joy because they’re contributing to something bigger than themselves.

If you want to put this wisdom into practice, start by looking for ways to serve in your everyday life. It doesn’t have to be grand gestures. Even small acts of kindness can make a huge difference. Volunteer at a local food pantry, help your neighbor with their groceries, or simply listen to a friend who needs to talk. The key is to shift your focus from seeking joy for yourself to creating joy for others. You'll find that in doing so, you create joy for yourself as well.

Imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a friend. They’re feeling down and unsure about their purpose in life. You share Tagore’s words with them. You tell them about the community garden example and how serving others can lead to unexpected joy. They ponder this, and you can see a light bulb go off in their head. They decide to volunteer at a nearby shelter. Over time, they start sharing stories about the people they’ve met and the difference they’re making. You see a change in them—they’re more vibrant, more alive. The act of serving others has given them a new sense of purpose and joy.

So, next time you’re feeling stuck or unfulfilled, remember Tagore’s wisdom. Don’t just dream about a joyful life—wake up, take action, and serve others. You'll find that the joy you’re looking for isn’t just a dream—it’s real and it’s waiting for you in the act of service. And who knows? You might change someone’s life in the process—maybe even your own.