Take a quick glance at the face of the person sitting next to you. Does that person have a countenance which reflects one of happiness? So what is this emotion called happiness? According to the Oxford Dictionary, happiness is the feeling or expression of joy, pleasure, contentment and/ or satisfaction. Some one who experiences these emotions is most often a very pleasant person to be with.

In today’s world with all of its trials and tribulations, happiness is very hard to find. However we should not throw up our hands in despair, we should seek God’s help and on him rest our burdens. God is a burden bearer and a problem solver. He does not desire that we live a life of doom and gloom, but rather one filled with happiness. After all, that is why he created the world—for us to rejoice and be glad in it.

A smiling countenance is one of the best ways to greet someone. When you are happy, it can make other people happy as well. Happiness is contagious! Try it and you will see.

So young people, though we are often faced with drugs, crime, violence and other negative ills today, let us not forget that there is such a word as ‘happiness’; and we have lots to be happy and thankful for:-

• We have a God who loves and cares for us
• We have our parents or guardians who are always there for us
• We have life so that we can enjoy all things

What more can we as young people ask for? Let us with God’s help rise above life’s trials and be happy human beings. Remember the Almighty likes cheerfulness and gladness; these are all expressions of happiness. Are you a happy person? Happiness is not hard to find ..it all comes from within you.

Anique Maynard