The Human Happiness Poem
Discover the joy of selflessness through Nannie H. Woodruff's heartfelt poem.
Updated March 18, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
Nannie H. Woodruff's poem Human Happiness shines a light on the profound truth that true joy comes not from selfish pursuits, but from acts of love and kindness. In this heartfelt reflection, she contrasts the emptiness of self-centered living with the deep fulfillment found in blessing others. Her words remind us of the beauty of selflessness, the power of love, and the ultimate foundation for happiness, building our lives on the principles of faith and compassion.
This poem offers timeless wisdom, urging us to embrace love as both a law and a gift, creating a ripple effect of joy that echoes far beyond our own hearts.
Human Happiness
I hold that human happiness,
If built on self, is nothing worth
That bliss translated means to bless
Some other denizen of earth.
The selfish man who lives alone
For greed of gain for paltry pelf,
Knows not his heart has turned to stone
That blindly he defrauds himself.
He might have won a wealth of love
By kindly acts and words of cheer
And joy, all other joys above
A needy neighbor's grateful tear.
For deeds of loving kindness will
In reflex influence return
To render kind hearts kinder still,
To make love's flame still brighter burn.
Who solely lived to please himself
E'er aught but disappointment found?
Pleasure's a sly, deceitful elf,
Who hides her chains until you're bound.
Oh, men are dull of heart and cold,
And find His lesson hard to learn
Who came the secret to unfold
How peace is found for which they yearn.
Love's the fulfilling of the law,
For love is law, and law is love;
If our old earth this mandate saw
Fulfilled, 'twould be like heaven above.
Then build your hope of happiness
Upon the rock of His command
Who gave His all your life to bless,
Or find you've built upon the sand.
Key Messages from this poem:
-
Real happiness comes from helping others.
Living only for yourself often leaves you feeling empty. True joy comes when you show kindness and make a positive difference in someone else’s life. -
Acts of love inspire more love.
A simple act of kindness can go a long way, touching hearts and spreading goodness. When you share love, it grows and reflects back, making life brighter for everyone. -
Building life on faith and love leads to lasting peace.
When you trust in God and live with love, your life feels steady and meaningful. His teachings provide the foundation for a life filled with purpose and joy.
Popular Pages:
If this poem spoke to your heart, these popular pages will encourage you with more words about joy, love, kindness, and the meaning of a well lived life.
Conclusion
Human Happiness is a beautiful reminder that the richest joy is not found in selfish gain, but in caring for others with love and kindness. Nannie H. Woodruff’s words encourage us to look beyond ourselves and to build our lives on faith, compassion, and a desire to bless those around us. When we do, we discover that true happiness is not something we chase, but something that grows within us as we give it away.
More Poems About Happiness to Encourage
