(CCC/Cristopher League) Capstone Source Sheet

(I) Pursuit of happiness, an inalienable right, is ingrained in human nature; simply, we’ll do what it takes. That self-centered impulse, our yetzer hara, is actually deemed “very good” in our tradition. But it must be constantly balanced with helping others be happy, too. That ethical impulse is our yetzer hatov (Bereshit Rabbah 9:7, as taught by Ira Stone). - I like this one the most

(i) This source relates to my capstone project because both organizations I am volunteering at involve working with children and teens. This text says that it is equally as important to be self-happy as it is to help others be happy. At these events, the goal is for the kids leave happy and have enjoyed their time with us, the volunteers. As an added bonus, we also leave happy, because we gave joy to others.

(II) Rabbi Nachman of Breslov teaches, “If you don’t feel happy, pretend to be. Even if you are downright depressed, put on a smile. Act happy. Genuine joy will follow.”

(ii) This source gives advice to at least act happy even if you are not. Looking happy can influence others to be happy. When I volunteer my capstone project, I act happy towards the children which eventually leads to their joyfulness. Their joyfulness leads to my happiness because I just did something good.

(III) "Appoint a teacher for yourself, acquire a friend, and judge all people favorably."
(friends become teachers, etc).

(iii) This quote explains that whomever you pick as a friend or a teacher, they can many times be exchangeable. One day, your teacher can become your friend, and you friend is now your teacher. In my capstone projects, I am volunteering to help the kids as a teacher, but when the event finishes, that kid and I become friends.