Hobbies

A hobby is an occupation we pursue outside our normal duties for amusement. Different persons have different hobbies. Some take to collecting stamps, some choose gardening, some angling, and so on. But whatever the hobby, it has its value. The most important is that it gives zest to life. The work we do for a living or for gain is like a task imposed. We have to do it, whether we get any delight in it or not. But the human heart seeks joy, and this he finds in the hobby. Everybody chooses his hobby according to his liking. So it gives him real amusement and joy. Moreover, different hobbies develop different qualities in us. Stamp collection acquaints us with the histories of different countries; angling teaches us patience and silence; gardening and painting develop a sense for beauty and joy in nature. But everything that gives amusement is not a hobby. It must be pure and should not interfere with our normal duties. So, the pursuit of a hobby must be kept within proper bounds. (167)