"Great effort from great motives is the best definition of a happy life"

William Ellery Channing was an American Unitarian minister and theologian who resided in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He was a significant figure in the Unitarian movement and is frequently referred to as the "daddy of American Unitarianism".

The quote "Great effort from excellent motives is the very best definition of a delighted life" is a reflection of Channing's belief that a life of function and meaning is the crucial to true joy. He believed that a life of effort and commitment to a cause greater than oneself was the very best method to achieve real satisfaction. He also believed that a life of service to others was the highest form of happiness. To put it simply, Channing believed that a life of function and commitment to a cause greater than oneself was the crucial to true happiness.