Why is a person who enjoys the effort of…
Why is a person who enjoys the effort of his own hands greater than one who fears Heaven? Because the joy that comes from personal fulfillment fosters love for He Who is the Source of happiness, and the love of God is superior to the fear of God
— from The Flight Plan (Purpose/Wisdom/Risk) · Maharal of Prague Pirkel Avos: A Commentary based on selections from Maharal's Derech Chai
In the book
I have learned, too, where the deepest satisfaction actually comes from, and it surprised me. It is not from what you are given but from what you build with your own hands — our tradition says the one who enjoys the fruit of his own labor stands, in a way, even higher than the one who merely fears Heaven, because his joy is earned and real. Flourishing, when I finally tasted it, turned out to be three things woven together: a sense of where you came from, real joy in the present, and a purpose pulling you forward. — The Flight Plan (Purpose/Wisdom/Risk)