Live Joyfully!

I have always believed in living life to the fullest.  Work hard and enjoy life.  That's why I like these passages from Ecclesiastes.

Ecclesiastes 5:18-20(NKJV)

18Here is what I have seen: It is good and fitting for one to eat and drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labor in which he toils under the sun all the days of his life which God gives him; for it is his heritage. 

19As for every man to whom God has given riches and wealth, and given him power to eat of it, to receive his heritage and rejoice in his labor—this is the gift of God. 

20For he will not dwell unduly on the days of his life, because God keeps him busy with the joy of his heart.

Ecclesiastes 9:9-10(NKJV)

9Live joyfully with the wife whom you love all the days of your vain life which He has given you under the sun, all your days of vanity; for that is your portion in life, and in the labor which you perform under the sun.

10Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.

What is so interesting about Ecclesiastes is that it is written by King Solomon (or I guess I should say that many scholars attribute it to him) who also wrote much of Proverbs.  Where Proverbs is positive and uplifting, Ecclesiastes is kind of dark and a downer as you can see above where he refers to a "vain life" and "all your days of vanity".  But even within that I have found some gems and this is an example.

To me this seems to be saying whatever you do, do it with passion.  Work hard.  Strive to be the best.  And when through that hard work you are blessed with some success, it is OK to gather your family around and celebrate and enjoy your success.  Live Joyfully!