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The Keenest Pleasure
There is a special kind of happiness that comes from seeing someone else succeed. In his poem, The Keenest Pleasure, Strickland Gillilan reminds us that while our own accomplishments bring satisfaction, celebrating the achievements of others can bring just as much joy.
When we encourage others and share in their success, we discover that happiness is not limited to what we achieve ourselves. Their victories can inspire us, strengthen our relationships, and remind us that there is always something worth celebrating.
Updated October 21, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
The Keenest Pleasure
Poet: Strickland Gillilan
We are so built, we human things,
That we may touch joy's deepest springs
Now and again. We should be glad
That real pleasure may be had
From our accomplishment of what
Our brains conceived, our two hands wrought
But still the finest joy, indeed,
Is seeing some one else succeed.
'Tis only now and then that we
Can bring the longed-for thing to be
That we ourselves had planned and dreamed,
That we had plotted for and schemed.
So if our only triumphs come
When we have crowned with doing, some
Of our own plans, we miss a lot
Of earthly joy we might have got!
For all the time some one's succeeding
In some great thing that had been breeding
In mind and soul of him; and so
A sympathetic joy we know
When he brings triumph out of chaos
And with his vict'ry song would stay us.
This makes of earth a Neighborhood
Our joy when some one else makes good.
Gillilan's message is a simple but meaningful one. We do not have to accomplish something ourselves to experience happiness. When a friend, family member, or even someone we hardly know reaches a goal, we can share in their excitement.
Think about how good it feels when someone sincerely congratulates you on an achievement. We have the opportunity to give that same encouragement to others. A kind word, a little recognition, or a heartfelt congratulations can make their success even more meaningful.
Key Reflections From This Poem
- Celebrate the success of others. Happiness grows when we take pleasure in the accomplishments of those around us. Their achievements give us another reason to smile and be thankful.
- Success is not always about ourselves. We may work hard toward our own goals, but we can also find satisfaction in watching others reach theirs. Sharing their happiness adds more joy to our lives.
- Encouragement makes a difference. A sincere word of praise can mean more than we realize. When we recognize someone's efforts, we help them feel appreciated and valued.
- Another person's success can inspire us. Watching someone overcome difficulties and accomplish a goal reminds us of what is possible. Their determination may encourage us to keep working toward our own dreams.
- Shared happiness strengthens relationships. When we are genuinely pleased for others, we build stronger friendships and family connections. Celebrating together creates memories and brings people closer.
Popular Pages
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Conclusion
The Keenest Pleasure reminds us that some of life's happiest moments come from seeing others accomplish their dreams. While it is natural to feel proud of our own achievements, there is something equally rewarding about sharing in another person's success.
The next time someone you know reaches a goal, take a moment to celebrate with them. Offer your congratulations, recognize their hard work, and enjoy their happiness. As Strickland Gillilan reminds us, one of life's finest pleasures is seeing someone else succeed.
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