Everyone is passionately fond of having freedom yet, there is one thing they will all sacrifice freedom for: happiness.
People will become slaves (addicted) to almost anything in search of happiness.
Simply put, there are two ways to respond to this paradox (becoming a slave to be happy):
1) Indulging in the pleasures of the world (temporary happiness)
2) Following the lessons and example of Christ (supreme happiness)
After we have indulged in the pleasures of the world, they become disappointing, demanding and often time disgusting.
The contrary is true of the pleasures of Christ. Before we have them, they are hard, unattractive, and to some repulsive. But after we possess them, they are satisfying and become all our heart could ever desire.
What the world deems success is truly failure and unhappiness.
Christ assures us that the poor shall be rich; the lowly shall be exalted; those who sow in tears shall reap in joy; those who mourn shall be comforted; and those who suffer with Christ shall one day reign with him.
Help me Christ, to grow in my love and appreciation for you and all you do for me. Grant me the grace to be a faithful follower and give me the strength to take up my cross with love and generosity.