What Makes You Happy?

On this random Monday afternoon, I came across a question that has haunted me all my life: what makes you happy?

Wise men say that happiness is a choice, a state of mind—slightly like freedom but a little more tangible. It can come from the strangest things, from the most random moments, and from people we've known all our lives but still sometimes feel like strangers.

I am happy when I write. When I am lost, and somewhere in that vertical axis of nothingness, I am found. I am happy when I get reconciled with ideas and when I discover the right words to bring them to life.

I am happy when I hear people laugh because it is one of the most beautiful sounds in the world.

I am happy when I hold someone's hand— to be reminded that I'm grounded and that I'm still here. I am happy when I am embraced and kissed.

I am happy when it rains and there is good music and coffee to keep you warm.

I am happy when I don't have to wake up very early in the morning.

I am happy when he's with me, even if we're just friends. Yes, I can be happy that at least we're friends.

I am happy when I am in the familiar presence of my family and friends.

I am happy with long and meaningful conversations.

I am happy in a four-walled classroom, in a vandalized chair, with theories that deconstruct the world around me.

I am happy when I get some time to think and immerse myself in the necessary pointlessness of life.

I am happy right now, with the miracle that is a new morning, a brand new chance to change and do something.

So be happy.