The Vale of Rest (1858-1859), John Everett Millais


The Highest Pleasures
The highest, the best, the most permanent pleasures are those which are not sought, but which come from the faithful fulfillment of life’s duties and obligations.
Indeed, eager search after pleasure in any direction is always fruitless, because it implies a condition of mind to which enduring happiness is a stranger.
Selfishness and enjoyment may dwell together for a brief season, but the latter will soon wither away under the absorbing influence of the former.