Hey everyone! Today, I am going to discuss a TED talk about happiness.

Where does it come from? Can it be self-generated? What defines it? Dan Gilbert explains how we can indeed generate our own happiness no matter what situation we're in. I'm a big believer in making the best out of things, giving others the benefit of the doubt, and trying to find the sliver lining. Everything happens for a reason, right? I like to think so. Gilbert tells the tales of several men who were dealt some seemingly bad circumstances. One was wrongfully sentenced to jail, another was kicked out of the Beatles before they made it big. After hearing these stories, most people would immediately feel sorry for these men, but they assure us that their misfortunes have been, in fact, just the opposite. These events have made them all the happier for going through it.
Recently, I struggled to find the silver lining. As you know I was really sick a couple weeks ago. As a result, I had to miss over a week of my Italian class and when I got back I just couldn't catch up. I was really disappointed in myself and when my teacher suggested that I just drop the class, I was devastated. I had figuratively "failed." I was too ashamed to talk to my parents during all of this so I was silently freaking out all last week. Luckily, one of my friends suggested talking to my academic advisor. We decided I should drop the class. I finally called my mom to tell her what was happening. I was expecting to hear an overwhelming amount of disappointment in her voice, but instead she started laughing. She knew how hard it would be to learn a new language with a quarter system even if I didn't   miss class. She was so understanding and reminded me that I'm only a freshman, barely halfway through my first year. I'm not supposed to be perfect. She's right. This is a learning experience and it's a process. We came up with some other options for myself and now I feel so good (even a little proud) of my choice. Of course, I hate that my sickness caused this, but I'm happier now and looking forward to the new opportunities that await me. For example, now I can finally get a job because my available hours don't conflict. I can take that extra guitar class. I can be more involved on campus with clubs and such. I don't know what awaits me, but I can't wait to find out!

P.S.
http://www.buzzfeed.com/mattbellassai/47-of-beyoncs-absolute-best-dance-moves-6z51

trust me. you'll thank me later