"L'illusion est le premier de tous les plaisirs."
— Voltaire
Simplified Meaning:
Often, imagining things can be more enjoyable than the actual reality. Think about when you dream of going to a beautiful beach vacation. You picture the sand, the waves, and the fun you'll have. This vision can make you happy, even before you get there. In real life, the beach might be crowded or the weather could be bad, but the dream of it is perfect and makes you feel good. People do this with many things, like thinking of how exciting a new job might be or how wonderful it will be to buy a new car. The fantasy brings joy and excitement, and that's why our first boost of happiness often comes from our imagination. So, to feel good, take joy in your dreams and plans; sometimes, just thinking about something can be a delightful experience.