College Ap- Learning to Thrive

To Be or Not To Be Happy

My favorite Starbucks drink is a large water. Yes, I understand that having water as my favorite drink from a popular coffee shop is very peculiar, but it's not the idea that it’s free it's the thought that it makes me happy. Happiness is a common necessity for us to fully function, but what people don't realize is happiness doesn't require buying anything. I sincerely enjoy making people happy, whether it’s getting them to laugh or even smile. More and more people struggle with maintaining a happy, healthy lifestyle. If my little ounce of happiness can lighten up someone's mood then I have done my job. Imagine what could happen if everyone took a second to smile at someone.

Growing up I had a lot of experience with being sad, due to bullying. I didn’t have the nicest clothes, best looking hair or straight pearly whites; I was just that one girl who sat quietly in science class. I observed my peers’ expressions, noticing most students had a smile on their face. Throughout the years of constantly being picked at, it had occurred to me that people were so focused on themselves, no one ever asked others, “Are you okay?” or, “Is everything alright?” It really sucked noticing others watching me get teased, and no one would come to the rescue to save my tears from slipping down my cheeks. After numerous experiences of people ignoring me when I needed someone

to catch me, I came to the conclusion I would always be the one that people could fall on if they needed to. Today I love meeting people and making friends, because when I needed someone I had nobody. Knowing someone is there for them can make all the difference in someone's day. I enjoy hearing people’s problems, and seeing them relieved and happy once I’m able to greet them.

A majority of people these days are forced to deal with depression without a shoulder to cry on while their depression controls their life. Depression can be so crippling it begins to consume the lives of people affected. The day to day struggle leaves those individuals feeling defeated and lonely. I make the most effort I can to allow those individuals to know I am someone they can turn to in times of support. A simple compliment or word of advice can change