When I get lost or anxious, I go to seek out my sources of happiness. 

If I have an off day at school or practice, I immediately rush to the rays of sunshine that help fill me up with the light that seems to be missing inside me. 

Normally, when people talk about their sources of happiness, they talk about being healthy, connected with others, and being well-rounded. These are great to follow, but sources of happiness can also be found in people or places. 

Here are just a few people that light up my life:

My mom and dad

When I start to feel misplaced or hopeless, I find myself gravitating back to you two. You both are my sunshine; I am a planet that constantly orbits around you.

In other words, you both are my rock and daily sources of happiness. Whenever I am mad or sad, I can count on you to help take away the bad and make me feel less somber. When there is no way out, I look to you both for love and strength, and even though the obstacles I run into make me think, I know you are always there to guide me down the path that holds lengths of happiness and bliss. 

Thank you for being my source of happiness.

FHC Cheer Team 

Whenever I am having a bad day, I look forward to seeing people who I know will make my day. When the skies turn gray, I know I can count on you all to make them bright and blue. Through the sideline season and competition season, there has been nothing but laughter and resilience. And through the highs and lows, you all have all pulled through. All of you have brought me so much cheer, and through the darkest times, we have carried one another back to the light. On top of that, you all have also brought so much comfort and delight which always gets us through the fight. 

Thank you for being my source of happiness.

Paulina Diesen 

Life isn’t always easy, but when I’m around you, you make it more enjoyable and less complicated. Every time I start to doubt myself, you lift me up and help me out. On top of that, you are one of the most energetic people I have ever met; whenever I start to fret, I turn to you with no regret. You’re smiling face and personality are contagious, and the kindness you bring spreads like wildfire.

At the end of the day, when my flare has gone out, I look to you without any doubt. I know you’ll be there waiting for me, and I am grateful that you continue to see the best in me. We have gotten closer over the months, and I am forever thankful for the friendship we have. 

Thank you for being a source of my happiness.

Allie Beaumont 

You are a very special person, and the acceptance you have given to me and others is unbelievable. You are beautiful inside and out and always have something uplifting to say. It seems that when everyone is in doubt, you are the first person to lead us on a more positive route. Your lively personality has always brought out the best in people, and I hope you continue to find the best in everyone. 

Thank you for being a source of my happiness.

Katelyn Bartels

Over the years, we have gotten closer, and I am thankful for the bond we have made. You always know how to put a smile on my face, and you never hesitate to ask if something is wrong. You motivate me to be a better person and help me see the bigger picture.

Whenever I start to stress, you remind me how strong I am and reassure me that everything will be okay. I will always enjoy our random trips to Chick-Fil-A and Target, and I will always be by your side on this long crazy ride. 

Thank you for being my source of happiness.

Dino Nuggets

Last, but certainly not least, dino nuggets. These are mood changers for me. Something about these delicious chicken nuggets gets me excited; maybe it’s because they make me feel like a little kid again. Yes, they are regular nuggets from a Tyson bag—nothing special—but to me, they are heaven and easily put a smile on my face faster than anyone could.  

Thank you for being my final source of happiness. 

While growing up, I have found that having a person or multiple people to go to when something exponential happens is mentally healthy to have. I feel that it is helpful to have little things such as Dino Nuggets that can put me in a positive mood when I am down. I will be forever lucky and pleased to be able to call these individuals my rays of sunshine and support systems. You all mean the world to me.