While people’s values, religions, customs, and more vary across the world, there is one thing we all strive for -- happiness. This emotional expression takes on different forms, yet its similar source is fascinating. 

Happiness is the positive emotions we have in regards to the pleasurable activities of our daily lives. Simply, it is our state of joy with the things occurring around us. Whether a person lives in Korea, Nigeria, or the US, our happiness is founded in the pleasure of our day-to-day activities. Interestingly, happiness is not always immediate, and finding our real pleasures can take time and determination 

My happiest moments came when I stepped outside my comfort zone. As the only girl in my Sea Cadets group and felt ostracized at times. During my initial meetings, I frequently asked my mom if I needed to return or if there were other opportunities. Still, she urged me to remain committed to the organization I had joined. And she was right. In a few months I came to love my team and found true happiness in helping others. 

Happiness is a destination; it comes at the end of an event or circumstance. However, as I have learned, lasting happiness comes from the journey of doing things that make one uncomfortable and persevering. While being in Sea Cadets, I have had many opportunities to help others while growing myself as a cadet and a person.  The program taught me discipline and a new level of respect. These factors led to a good volunteering experience as it taught me strong teamwork, patience, and how to have fun even in a serious situation. 

This individual experience is unique to myself, but the quest is universal. So I encourage everyone to step out of their own comfort, push through new experiences, and continue to find happiness around them. 

Heidi Jung 

Irvine High School

11th