Joyfulness vs. Self-Pity "Maintaining a good attitude, even when faced with unpleasant conditions"   JOYFULNESS - A One-Minute Testimonial Announcement Faith Committee, Character Council of Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky   Contributed by John F. Pierce Character Council Faith Committee Chairman, Cincinnati, OH May 21, 2001     MARK TWAIN: FAMOUS BUT JOYLESS   Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens, 1835-1910), is one of the most widely loved and celebrated American writers, and is considered to be the world's greatest humorist. Twain lived an eventful life, including stints as printer, steamboat pilot, gold prospector, journalist during the Gold Rush, renown lecturer known for his storytelling and stage presence, newspaper editor, author, and publisher. Many of his writings have reached the peaks of world literature, including the timeless Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Mark Twain also experienced deep sorrows. He held himself responsible for the death of his younger brother in a steamboat accident, and for his only, 19-month old son through illness. He grieved deeply when illness took two of his three daughters early, one at age 23 and the other at age 29. And then he lost his wife of 34 years through illness. In earlier years he had known happiness - pleasures which depend on happenings - success, fame and money. But joy - which comes from the Lord - escaped him. Even in the depths of his sorrows, he would not turn to God. Sadly, when he died he was downcast, bitter, hopeless, lonely - and without the joy of the Lord.   [Sorrows adapted from Our Daily Bread, June, July, August, 2001 (June 9)]   This material is published by the Faith Committee of the Character Council of Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Reproduction and Adaptation is encouraged.