When I think about what makes me happiest, it’s not a simple answer. It’s a lot of little things that make up a big piece of who I am.
The environment can change, but as long as certain constants remain, I will always be happy. Family, music, and writing are some of the first things that come to mind.
Family
There’s always a certain comfort that exists within the confines of my family. I’ve never had to dilute my personality or interests in exchange for their approval. We’re all a little bit wacky, but in a fun, loving way. I genuinely enjoy being around my family, which makes me happy.
No family is perfect. But I believe that our values aligns with our heart and moral compass just enough to put aside the bullshit for the parts that matter the most.
My friends are also my family. The circle of people with whom I choose to surround myself feel like sunshine. They lift me up, educate me, make me grow and do their best, that makes me happy.
Music
Ever since I was little, music has always played an active role in my life. There is a song that fits every mood, a lyric that can feel so powerful it’s speaking to you and you alone, and an artist that continues to inspire you.
I’m always at my happiest when I can create something. Anything.
Despite the self doubt and the lack of confidence that comes with being a creative person, doing music feels right, both physically and emotionally. Physically, because I feel it in my ‘gut’. A feeling I heard about, but rarely experienced until I found artists that I connected to, which made my wild dream seem possible. The ones who can perform with minimal theatrics, yet command the entire room. It’s the moment when you listen to a song that makes you feel, I want that. The moment where, whatever dream, no matter how unrealistic it may be, feels possible. Suddenly, I feel my heart and mind align, and, in that moment, I am happy.
Writing
It’s almost been a year since I’ve taken writing more seriously. Being published on a well-known platform, and then starting Words Between Coasts have both forced me to share a message that is important to me, and hopefully relatable to others.
Being a part of the writing community has shown me that the forces that bind us together are far stronger than the ones that tears us apart.
Humanity is far more connected with one another, even if it’s in small and simple ways. Yet, it’s easier to try to find differences amongst each other because, when we choose to connect, it forces us to reflect on our character. Writing has provided me with a healthy creative outlet. If I can’t create then I don’t know how to function. It’s hardwired into my being, for that I am happy.
If we want to be happy, we have to find it for ourselves. We can look for superficial forms of happiness, but it will only be temporary. It has to come from within, whatever that means for you. Just chase whatever makes you feel like sunshine.
Photo by Levi Guzman on Unsplash
I live in New York, representing the East coast portion of Words Between Coasts.
