"Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." - Abraham Lincoln
In other words, our personal level of satisfaction is entirely within our control. Otherwise, why would the same experience disappoint one person but delight another? Happiness is not an accident but a choice.
Happiness is an emotion every human being has experienced to a certain degree in his life. Is happiness something over which people have no control, or can people choose to be happy? In 2 well-constructed paragraphs, develop your point of view on this issue. Use specific examples and details while displaying what happiness implies to you.In addition to your own post, please reply to someone else's in a few sentences.
Destiny Lightfoot
ReplyDeleteUnderstanding Writing
Blog 13
January 10, 2014
In my experience and of what my family has told me is that you can either choose to be happy or not, it’s honestly all your choice. I think that you can choose whether to or not to be happy in life. My family and friends have always told me “Okay, if you want to be happy than you can or you can dwell on the issue for your whole life and choose not to be happy.” Everyone wants to be happy in life but if they feel that they shouldn’t then that’s absolutely their choice not to be.
Also, I think that people have the control on whether to be happy or not. What happiness means to me is that sometimes you can’t control yourself whether to be happy or not because if something or someone make you upset then all you want to be at that moment is be sad and maybe cry, but then later on you have the control to be happy if you want to be. We all sometimes can’t help being happy because when sometimes we just want to smile and laugh. So, we have both the control and choice to be happy when we want to be happy or not.
This is only one paragraph. Please add to it before Friday for more points. Give specific examples to illustrate what you mean.
DeleteMore elaboration:
DeleteP1: I feel that everyone has the choice and control to be happy if they choose. For example, one time I got so mad at my sister and I explained that to my mom and my mom said "okay destiny its not a big deal, but if you wont to be unhappy for the whole rest of your life dwelling on this then you can." That's when I realized that I really have the control to be happy and just let the issue go away. Like I said before I think that everyone wants to be happy in life but if they feel that they shouldn't then that's absolutely their choice not to be.
P2: I believe that everyone has the choice and control to be happy or not in life. They can either choose to be happy and go on in life or just mope around being sad for the rest of their life. my mom always tells me " you have the control of your life and actions, not anyone else. They cant tell you how to feel." That's absolutely correct! If you want to be happy then you have the control to be as well as the choice when you want to be.
ReplyDeleteI believe everyone has the power to make their lives happy and make themselves happy. This is because everyone has a say in life it is not like someone is making choices for you. So the choices you make is what moldes your life and happiness. It is like seeing the cup half full or half empty. The people that see it half empty are the people that make their own life miserable because they do not want to be happy. However the others see the good side of everything and choose to be happy.
For example one of the days it snowed I was suppose to go to my uncles house. I wanted to go because he lives in a very hilly terrain so it would have been perfect for sledding. However, we were unable to make it, instead of being angry and making myself miserable I looked at the positives. One was the the roads were horrible so we could have gotten in a car accident. Another is that the day was very cold so instead of being in the outside cold I stayed in my warm house. I like to make myself happy because I don't believe in destiny, I make my own future.
Good example.
DeleteBlog 13
ReplyDeleteTyler Medina
PART 1!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I personally think that happiness can be controlled just by thinking about it. The least that a person who isn't very happy is to just think about the positive things in life. It's not hard at all and it will most likely make that person feel better about their certain situation. I do this sometimes, because sometimes I feel so upset and sad out of no where, even in school. When I feel it, it's like I'm looking into the heart of an immense darkness, so I look for my friends. I feel very diffident when it happens, but it's not indelible, I kinda choose when I want it to go away.
While I do agree that you can just think happy thoughts to become happy, what about pessimists? They always see the bad side of everything, and so can't really think happy thoughts, can they? If they can't just think to become happy, then what could they do to find happiness? Maybe they can't control whether or not they are happy.
DeleteIt's just a thought that you could consider in part two, unless of course you read this comment after you post part two.
Nice use of the word "indelible" - Impressed.
DeleteAs Aristotle once said, “Happiness is the meaning and purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence”. Happiness is the state of feeling pleasure or contentment. It is truly one of the best feelings that one can experience in his/her lifetime. Considering my own experiences and observations of others, I believe that happiness is something we have control over. What makes one person happy can make others suffer. That is your own choice, not blind chance. For example, one of my favorite pass times is reading. I thoroughly enjoy it and it lets me escape into my own world of imagination. It’s fun to be able imagine what the characters and settings look like to you. However, others may find reading dreadful and a waste of time. That is their own opinion, and they may find happiness in things that I disagree with.
ReplyDeleteWhile I do believe that happiness is something we have control over, it crossed my mind that maybe we can’t control. There are people out there that have not known happiness in a long time. For example, just look at depression. People have committed suicide thanks to depression. Why they do, we are not completely sure, since we are not able to look into the mind of another human being. Perhaps it’s because they believe their life is terrible and therefore think that their existence is futile. It’s a very strong thought, but it can cross a person’s mind. Depression is a dangerous feeling that can plague us mentally, physically and emotionally. In fact, I’m pretty sure it’s actually a disease of sorts, not just a feeling. While there are levels of depression, it is still very serious. This so-called disease can stop us in our pursuit of happiness (Great movie, by the way). So while happiness is something we can control, there are times when we can’t control it.
And yes, I did start a sentence with “so”.
Great quote in your first paragraph, I like how you tagged on your own hobby of reading into this, and maybe you could've also added another example outside of yourself? Other than that, great first paragraph. To flip, in your second paragraph, you had a great outside example. However, to tie it to your first paragraph, you could've also had an example in your own personal exp[erience. Great second paragraph, though. I really didn't like that last insert at the end, and it honetsly annoyed to the point I had to comment to your article. Please, don't write things like that!
DeleteExcellent examples, for both sides. I enjoy reading as well and cannot fathom how others cannot - there must be something wrong. Also, depression is not merely a feeling of sadness but a legitimate chemical imbalance in the brain which causes the victim to be unable to have "happy thoughts."
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ReplyDeleteEdwin Unsihuay
1/8/14
Happiness is a type of feeling/emotion that we all carry in our hearts at any point in time. Whether it is at school, home, or anywhere we show happiness and it spreads to others to. People can choose to be happy because we all have our ups and downs at one point in life such as a loss of a family member, heartbreak, and failure of something that has great sentimental value to us. Thus, this leads to other emotions such as depression, which is the opposite of happiness. Everyone has different feelings inside of him or her and sometimes they find it hard to express it. When we are with friends or family, happiness is showed because we love our family it’s joy that gives us that feeling of wanting to hug a sibling or someone.
When people are protecting something truly special to them, they truly can become… as strong as they can be. Humans have the right to express emotion and who they really are. In the end you find out what kind of person you truly are through all the obstacles that you have overcome. For example, when a family member who serves for the military comes back home, we show happiness and let out tears of joy because we missed them and love them with all our heart. Knowing what it feels to be in pain is exactly why we try to be kind to others. Martin Luther King’s speech at the Lincoln Memorial spread happiness throughout the United States as it told people not to judge people at that time by their appearance but to treat them with equal respect. As time passes people will learn the true meaning of happiness, just you wait.
I agree with you 100% when you said that we show our happiness a lot when we are with our friends or family because we love our family and friends
DeleteEdwin, I agree with your logic on how people's experiences can affect how happy they are or how happy they ever will be. Also you are right when you say that we as humans beings feel as types of emotions and sometimes it can be hard for us to express them.
DeleteVery thoughtful response Edwin. Good examples.
DeleteHappiness is a feeling that people can adjust or take control of, but unfortunately, not many are aware of how much they can make up their days to how they want to be. Regularly, people choose to focus on what bothers or irritate them. It’s easier to let themselves go and have anything harm them emotionally, like getting upset over having someone step on their feet by accident. People who can be happy on a non-special occasion had to possess the courage to look pass the negative images in their life. They must realize what they can do to help themselves in the near future. Getting up early in the morning, finishing homework on time, doing chores without having anyone to remind you, many things that takes you to the finish line tend to give you less task to worry about. Work sometimes is needed in order to make someone happy, forcing yourself to be positive is not easy, but once you’re able to do it, you will be able to force yourself to do anything you want.
ReplyDeleteAlthough, it's hard for some people to seek their positive side of life because there are many tasks and situations that affect the individuals in a certain way. Some people have family problems, some always have arguments and conflict with co-workers and many other possibilities. Such cases like being depressed from a tragic accident will prevent individuals from achieving happiness. But in any cases, nothing can prevent happiness from anybody forever. It’s how you make your life seem to be. Hobbies and activities are handy when trying to lighten your mind to relax. My ways of seeking happiness is by watching Disney movies or going out and have fun. Eating your favorite food can also provide you happiness. Life is what you make of, nobody can control your choice of making decisions or your inner emotions.
A well written response with great details. Good advice. I also love Disney movies, but only the animated ones.
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ReplyDeleteAbraham Lincoln once said: "Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." Meaning that, whatever life gives you, someone can always find something in what they do to be happy about. This statement is partly true, in that, some people can be at the bottom of the social barrel, and yet they can be as happy as anyone can be. Take children in Africa for example. Although you make think of starving, dirty young ones, some of them are content with their ragged clothes and shacks, as long as they can run about, playing soccer with their friends. However, the opposite can also be said. While the rich live the high life, making millions every day, there isn’t a definite that they’re happy. One can be the richest man in the world, but they can also be the saddest, with money leaving a whole for what truly matters.
For me, happiness can be found in a variety of concepts. Activities simple as talking to a person can bring me happiness. Also, people can bring me happiness. In accordance with activities, doing even little things with the people I love can bring me invaluable amounts of joy. Happiness really can be determined, rather than brought to you. It is a matter of choice, and whether you choose to wallow in sorrow, or choose to make your life better , find some good in your life, and be happy with that. As I began with a great quote, it seems appropriate to end with one.
“Don’t worry, be happy.”
-Bobby McFerrin/ Bob Marley
I enjoyed reading your blog post. I liked your point of view and the people inn my life can also bring me immense amounts of joy. i also liked that you added a quote as well.
DeleteZachary Alan Forrest, I found your article very true and relatable to my own meaning of happiness. In addition i like how you added the Bob Marley Verse. But yes, i definitely agree that happiness can be found in simple activities and by doing little things with the people i love as well. For example, when you, Zach, do some random things i find it hilarious and it makes me happy. All in all good Response.
DeleteI do agree that people with little to nothing are still able to be happy as you explained in your first paragraph. I’ve seen people with children who are in extreme poverty but, still enjoy life and are happy. It’s all over the world but, people still enjoy life. I also agree with your second paragraph of finding happiness in the minor activities. You pointed up some good points in both paragraphs. Good response.
DeleteIt is very true that money does not buy happiness - good examples.
DeleteAlexandra Reidy
ReplyDeleteI think that happiness is something that we cannot control, I think that happiness comes natrually from others and from objects. Happiness is not a state of mind or something you can make yourself. Some people become happy from small things like finding a dime or it may take large things like a new lamborghini. One cannot simply want to become happy and become happy, something needs to occur to for one to become happy. For less fortunate people it doesnt take as much to make them happy, unlike spoiled kids who get upset if they didn't get everything they wanted. The more appreciative that someone is th happier they are likely to be55
For example, when I feel okay I cannot automatically make myself happy. Laughter, friendliness, and a little of something sweet (chocolate) can brighten a persons day. When I am sad I do things that make me happy like playing video games and going on ifunny. I can do crazy things and laugh until it hurts, these things that make me happy are simple. But as a wise person once told me "do whatever floats your boat."
Even though this is short I can interpret the point you are trying to suggest. Although, I feel, that happiness can occur by chance such as if winning a contest or finding something rare. When you said "Happiness is not a state of mind or something you can make yourself." I feel that you can create happiness and happiness comes with internal peace. Everyone can make their own happiness. If a person lives an optimistic life, happiness shall draw towards them like they are a walking magnet. I respect your opinion, though, as ours do not differ greatly.
DeleteYou are right of happiness not being able to be controlled because indeed at one point we get depressed at something in our life. As you said there are things that cheer you up from depression back to happiness which is a good thing. Although lets face it, we all have happiness inside our hearts. It just take that one person to understand what happiness is. Great job Alex, even thought it was short it was well-explained.
DeleteIt is true that depending on the chemical balance in our brains (aka our mood) it may take different level of "good fortune" to make us happy. Is mood entirely dependent on the things that happen to us? Can we not change our reaction to a moment?
DeleteBlog 13
ReplyDeleteTyler Medina
PART 2!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
But there are people in this world who are known as pessimists. Those people always see the bad side of things so therefore there may be nothing in this world that would make them one hundred percent happy. One way that I strongly suggest that pessimists do to make themselves happy, is to find love, or have a great friendship. Not just a girlfriend to have for a couple of weeks and then end it, a relationship that will last and that will make you more mature of a person. A relationship that makes you feel lucky that you have that person, the kind of person that if your together somewhere, you don't have to be any different than how you are normally, the kind of person that you just think about during the day and smile just thinking about them. That will make anyone in this world happy.
I like that you take the advice of the person who commented on your previous post and tackle the subject they asked about. Also, good relationship advice.
DeleteHappiness, the state of being happy, but can happiness be controlled, or can someone choose to be happy? Well what can be happiness to someone, can shame, or hurtful, or annoying to someone. “One’s man garbage, can be someone’s treasure” and visa versa. For example, to some, the blessing of having a child is a miracle and one of the most wonderful things that can happen to a couple, like my mother, she is blessed to have had me and my brother and we are the reason she is one of the happiest persons I know. But there are those who don’t want the responsibility to take care of a child and don’t find them as amusing and blessing, some find them a burden and annoying to have around. But again what is true happiness?
ReplyDeleteA study conducted by a YouTube channel called SoulPancake did a study of about 20 people they walked into randomly and made them write a letter to the most inspiring person of their life. Then they had to call that person, and read to them the letter they wrote to them. Turns out that whenever someone expresses how inspiring and how much they love them, they increase their state of happiness by 12 to 30 percent. But also, whoever was the most depressed person, or the saddest person in this study had the most surprising results, in which their happiness increased by 35%. Shockingly, it shows that by simply expressing yourself to someone can make you happy.
Furthermore, can happiness be controlled or do they choose to be happy. In the end, its more of whether you want to be happy and fight for it. Someone can’t just be happy by living alone and staring in front of a computer for hours and find happiness within that, although there are people like that, but that’s not the point. I recall sometime around November in the news it talked about how to be happy and what causes happiness. One of the smallest reasons that make someone happy is money, which in all cases is true. But neither your popularity nor your money is going to get you to be completely happy. Someone who has true friends, a family in which they can go to and a place they can call home are the happiest people around. For example, I feel happy enough. I have a loving family, an education, friends that are there for me, like Darius, and I’m not even that popular yet I’m one of the happiest persons you can meet. And all of this is done because I chose to be happy and find it. Wherever someone can suit in and find comfort is where happiness can be found.
I agree with you if someone wants happiness it is a choice. However, the choice will not be easy as you said if they really want to be happy then they have to fight for their happiness.
DeleteYour example in paragraph 2 is great - I like that you did some research in order to creatively and originally answer the question with some very specific data. It is very important to be happy with who you are, no matter who that is.
DeleteIn life all of us can choose wether if we want to be happy or not it's our choice we can control our happiness. A lot of people don't really like to be happy for any circumstances, but they can change that because they can control themselves if they want to be happy or not. They sometimes make their life harder or stressful because they always think the negative sides. I feel like when people don't choose to be happy they are in the dark side like Star Wars. When you see dark Vader he is never happy, he is always grumpy and rude that's because he really doesn't think about the bright side. But the other hand the Jedi nights the good guys they are sometimes happy you see them interact with other people and going to parties. I always chosen to be happy because it gives me confidence to myself, it makes me forget all my problems and what's going on around me, also it tells other people who I really am. Being plain, not being happy sounds awful but it doesn't really matter because no one can't really force them what to do it's there life. our mind and feelings can control happiness. But majority of people around the world have been happy once in their life time because happiness comes naturally.
ReplyDeleteHappiness is like a warm loving word to me because whenever your with someone like your family, or friends you really Love them and care about them and that makes you happy. Whenever I'm with my family I'm always happy because I'm Spending time with my love ones and I really care about them. We all have that nice bonding with each other and I feel the warmth all around me because everybody is happy to be with each other. In life people always say they will like to be famous when they grow up because the will get all the money and go all over the world. We think people who are famous are happy about that because they can do almost whatever they want. But in reality they aren't that happy because they don't get to spend time with their family and friends, and they have to do too much work. I'm glad that I'm still a young boy and I don't have to deal with taxes or anything that comes with money because many people will get frustrated with taxes and things like that. people say money makes them happy but I say family makes me happier. A lot of people want Money but they are not always with you. When you spend it it is gone and you have nothing left and you won't get happy when you are broke. But family is always their for you no matter what.
I agree with you that we can choose to be happy or not to be happy. I like the examples you gave about star wars and how if you're not happy its like being on the dark side all negative and evil.
DeleteA great and mature response - I would pick relationships with people over money any day. Also, props for using "Star Wars" as an example.
DeleteI agree, we think others are happy but they really aren't. We decide what makes us happy, like family, as you stated in your post. We sometimes think things make us happy, but they don't. We can decide our own happiness.
DeleteAs if a wind charm raises the expectations of its listeners; happiness occurs in the existent form and literature of human exposure to the world. Happiness comes from hatred, love, devotion, respect, bewilderment, et cetera. How people have happiness and no happiness form the same experiences as different things make people happy. If a person is manipulative, it would make them happy to see the person they’re oppressing making a fool of themselves, or, giving in to the requests of the manipulative person. If a person has hatred for another, that person would have happiness from seeing the downfall of the person they detest. I am split right through the middle of my opinion for whether or not happiness is of one’s own opinion or for the hands of the world’s random conclusions of fate for people. Although, I feel strongly on the fact that happiness comes from one’s own optimism. Happiness emits from happy people in the facts that if one allows happiness in one’s life, it will come. For example, an animal lover will get happiness from seeing an animal transform from being mistreated and cruelly wronged to a loving, sociable animal or pet for the owner’s enjoyment. On the other hand, an animal hater will get happiness from seeing the population of animals decreasing for whatever reason suitable.
ReplyDeleteIn addition, happiness is a fluke as to the world’s pleasure. If one decides to participate in the lottery; it is explicit as to who shall win the happiness of the fortune. If one walks down the street and finds a golden watch, money, a ring; the world has gifted them with arbitrary happiness. Happiness can in fact strike a person at any moment, but, I feel that person must comply themselves even the slightest to let that exposed happiness in. Happiness floats in the air around every single person on earth. If they hold the lucky lightning bolt and somehow get struck with the haphazard happiness that comes with existence, they are happy. But, other than that, life is what one makes it; if one decides to go outside and embrace life for what it is, they will never regret it. In addition, people should go outside and take a walk around the park, see the insects flying and grip the scents of the flowers coating the open fields as if the scent is tangible. Anyone can be happy, and if they let themselves free to the world; the world will give back with a chance at internal peace; and happiness.
I like how you started this off a lot, I really agree with what you said! good job!
DeleteThe variety of happiness you discuss is impressive - great use of detail and figurative language. Impressive vocabulary.
DeleteYou may not be happy now, but at some point in your life you once were. Weither your the type of person that makes doesn't like to show there emotions and talk to people about your emotions, its your choice to make it affect you and not want to enjoy the time that you are wasting by putting yourself down. Weither you want to be or not, its all under your control. One can be the the type of person the see the negative side of everything and not go out to hang with friends, your just putting yourself down, not believing in yourself and lowering your confidence and self esteem. While one who is happy, is always out and about twith friends, sees the positive and has no regrets on the choices that they choose to make.
ReplyDeleteWhen i think of happiness i think of me being surrounded by those that i hold dearest to heart which is my close friends and family. Yet no ones family is perfect, putting all flaws aside i still love them because they are my family. And just like any other person, we arent always happy. But i don't let them affect me and put me down because with all that time doubting and feeling bad, i wasting the time i could be having for feeling happy. Anyone can be happy, don't let yourself be down all the time it won't be fun...live freely with no regrets.
Well done.
DeleteBlog 13
ReplyDeleteHappiness is something one person can control. We all choose to be happy. Some people are depressed all the time. They can do stuff to make them happy like get a dog or do nothing at all. If you choose to do nothing than you are not helping yourself in the long run. People do a lot of stuff to be happy like going out with friends or family or do a sport. But, the people that are depressed just to be depressed and do nothing about it will cause them to ether be miserable forever or commit suicide.
We all as humans have those times where we are not happy and we just feel miserable. But, we get over it and we are fine after the next few days. But, some people never get over it and are unhappy for the rest of their life. There is always happy people out just some people like to hide it so they don’t look weird out in public
Elaborate with detailed examples for each of your reasons. Remember to reply to someone else too.
Deletepeople do have control over their whole entire lives they choose what who they want to be and choose who they want to do so i think people do have control over their happiness. people can choose to be happy because no matter what is goiing on in your life and it could be the most depressing stage of your life or you could begoing through a mid life crisis you can still choose to be happy. Even though your not happy you can choose to be and you yourself have control over your own emotins. also why i think people can choose to be happy is because people think that just because your depressed that you have to be the grinch the whole time and go crazy and take it out on the people that you love or ones that are close to you. there are all types of senarios where someone says that you yourself choose your life and technically the same rule applies here because just how you can choose how your life goes and who you marry you people choose to be unhappy because how their life is going you don't have to be unhappy because of a certain situation. there is a lot of people out there that smile a whole lot but secretly their lives may be going in a downward spiral but those people choose to happy and they dont have to be unahppy.
ReplyDeleteGood ideas, but proofread for grammar.
DeleteAbraham Lincoln one stated, "Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." This means that people have the ability to choose to be happy. I agree with our 16th president’s words, that people have control over their happiness. The definition of happiness is the quality or the state of being delighted, pleased, or glad, as over a particular thing. However, everyone has different things that make people happy since everyone is different. People have to find what makes them happy. Unfortunately, there are some people who aren’t happy and don’t see what the point of life is due to some experiences in their lives and such. People may lose someone close to them or have life take an unexpected turn which may make them depressed and think what the point of life is but, they have the chance to turn their life around. Everyone has to ability to follow their passion or do/have what makes them happy if they work hard.
ReplyDeletePeople have to find what makes them happy which may differ from what other people find make them happy. Only the person themselves, have the ability to decide what makes them happy in life and no one else can decide it for them. For example, I find that my family, friends, music, trying new thrilling and things and reading make me feel happy. This may differ in with other people because people have different tastes. In the short story, “The Treasure of Lemon Brown” by Walter Dean Myers, a poor man’s treasure is an old harmonica. This harmonica made this man happy for sentimental reasons but, the main character didn’t understand how it made the old man happy. Different things make different people happy because everyone is unique. Therefore, people need to find what makes them happy in life and no one can decide that for them.
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ReplyDeleteI really like your response. I thought it was a smart addition adding the definition of happiness. I also liked how you put in examples of how you can choose if you're happy and what makes you happy. The best part to me was referencing “The Treasure of Lemon Brown” in your response. It really relates to the topic and it was a clever and interesting reference to add. Good job.
DeleteAnd it is definitely true all of what you are saying. Very logical and well thought.
DeleteI like that you used both personal and literary examples.
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ReplyDelete“Happiness”
Happiness could be controlled by the person or not. It all depends on the person. Some people can be happy in their situation because of what they want. If they want to be left alone and chase a dream and it makes them happy then let them. Some people become happy in a certain moment like marriage, a vacation or getting a pet. For some it is temporary joy, a prime example is a new video game. Temporary joy comes from material objects. Everlasting joy comes from experiences. If a material object holds a memory then it could hold value but if your only memory of an object is buying it, then it’s not everlasting joy.
In my personal experience feeling happy depends on a few factors. Family and friends could change my terrible mood into a perfect mood. If I don’t see any of my close friends for three weeks or longer I start to feel sad, depressed, or anything that could fall into that category. When I feel sad I play video games for hours on end or feel as if I need a new game to play. What makes me the happiest are the memories I hold. The concerts I’ve been to, the summers playing pokemon with my friends, or a short walk around the mall while having fun. Material objects make me happy for a few days or a week at most, but good times with friends and family reminds me how happy I really am.
The end of your first paragraph has some meaningful sentences. I agree with your perspective on lasting and temporary happiness. Material possessions, once gained, will only make a person want the next item on their list.
DeleteHappiness is something we all try to get and have. Happiness is a strong emotion and controls most things we do in life and has a big impact on the decisions we make. I also think happiness is something we choose to have. If you want to be happy then be happy. We choose how we want to live our lives. One can also choose the way we feel if we wanted to because we don't need someone or something telling us how we feel.
ReplyDeleteHappiness is sometimes felt in a situation where good things happen or when someone has very good luck. Although some situation bring happiness, happiness is found within yourself and not in our material possessions. There are people who are rich and have everything the want and get everything they ask for, but they are not happy. Also there are people that are poor, but consider themselves as happy. Happiness is a choice we have. We can be happy if we want or we can be sad if we want, its all in our heads, we control ourselves and our decisions.
I agree totally with you Aladin, happiness is something we control for the most part and if someone wants to be happy they should be happy. Great job.
DeletePlease give specific examples, details and situations to make your reasons stronger. A bit too short.
DeleteSydney White
ReplyDeleteUnderstanding writing
1/6/14
Per: 9
I think that happiness is something we choose to be. No one can control our happiness, and how we feel. Happiness is an emotion that we choose to feel. Our own emotions can’t be controlled by someone else because no matter how badly someone hurts you, you choose if you want to let that affect you or not. Happiness shouldn’t be something controlled by someone else. For example, if someone was making fun of you, they cannot control if you become sad or not.
Some people just ignore it and be happy so it’s not a feeling someone can control. To not let someone walk all over you, you must have self-confidence. Even without it people still can’t control your feelings but they can try to mess with them. For instance, being happy is an emotion that is hard to control, no one besides you can tell you to be happy, only you can tell yourself that and actually listen. Being happy is something that everyone wants to feel, but you have to set your mind to it, and no one else can besides you.
A bit repetative between the two paragraphs.
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ReplyDeleteLandin Morris
ReplyDelete1/10/14
Blog 13 (Happiness)
Happiness is a controversial topic. Due to experiences and peoples point of view in life, many different people look at happiness in different ways. For most part, all human beings have experience some type of happiness in their lives. But one of the biggest questions about happiness is that is happiness something you have control over, or not? Happiness is both something that the individual has control over and doesn’t at the same time.
An individual has control over happiness when it comes to how he thinks of himself. For example, if a person thinks negatively of himself, think it he wont be happy. It is hard to be happy when you at yourself and see nothing but hatred. This is the type of happiness someone can control. An individual can chose to think positively about themselves and have self of confidence, and slowly become happy. An individual can also control happiness when he choses the people he wants to be around. Hanging around people who think negatively of themselves can cause the person to think negatively of himself also. Choosing to hang around people who have a better and more positive influence, can affect the individual in more positive way, and allow him to be happy as well.
Happiness is also something you can have no control over. Sometimes things happen to individuals, by luck or by other forces, that cause him to be happy. For example, if a boy is walking down the street and finds a 20 dollar bill on ground, with no one around to calm it, he will be bursting with excitement and will be thrilled that he just found some money. He didn’t have control of the dollar bill, he didn’t know it going to be there waiting for him. But it was, and he had no control over it, but it made him happy at the same. Another example is that a person wins the lottery and wins over a million dollars. Even though someone else is controlling the amount of money he is receiving, the actual individual can’t control the amount of money he is being given, and therefore he couldn’t have made himself happy in situation. An outside force caused this type of happiness.
Happiness is truly amazing. The excitement and feeling that is received when someone feels happy can be replaced by anything else. Happiness is both controlled and accidental at the same time. What makes you happy?
Well argued on both sides.
DeleteOur 16th president once said"Most people are as happy as they make up their minds to be."Which in other words means that people have the ability to choose to be happy. So I do agree our 16th president but I also disagree with him. I agree with him because people get happy for different reasons everyone is different.For example someone might get very happy to have allot of money.Some one might get happy to get a gift they always wanted.Lastly someone might get happy to see a puppy or kitten playing so joyfully. I disagree with our 16th president because someone else might get happy to see or hear something funny. For example if you hear a great joke you can't help but smile and laugh there fore showing a way that your happy.If you see something funny such as a person running into a tree or a pole you can't help but smile and you become happy.Also friends and family make you happy. For example friends bring happiness to you if they really are your friends,and you bring happiness to them. Lastly your family and the one person you love should and will always bring joy and happiness to you and make you happy. They will do this because some how your family members always find a way to make you happy whether making you laugh or cheering you up. The one you love will always be there fore you just like your family and will always find a way to make you happy.
ReplyDeleteOur 16th president once said"Most people are as happy as they make up their minds to be."Which in other words means that people have the ability to choose to be happy. So I do agree our 16th president but I also disagree with him. I agree with him because people get happy for different reasons everyone is different.For example someone might get very happy to have allot of money.Some one might get happy to get a gift they always wanted.Lastly someone might get happy to see a puppy or kitten playing so joyfully.
ReplyDeleteI disagree with our 16th president because someone else might get happy to see or hear something funny. For example if you hear a great joke you can't help but smile and laugh there fore showing a way that your happy.If you see something funny such as a person running into a tree or a pole you can't help but smile and you become happy.Also friends and family make you happy. For example friends bring happiness to you if they really are your friends,and you bring happiness to them. Lastly your family and the one person you love should and will always bring joy and happiness to you and make you happy. They will do this because some how your family members always find a way to make you happy whether making you laugh or cheering you up. The one you love will always be there fore you just like your family and will always find a way to make you happy.
The idea of uncontrollable happiness, as in hearing a joke, is interesting. I never thought of happiness in that way - I like it.
DeleteJonathan Meyer
ReplyDeleteBlog 13
Happiness is a strange thing. It can be felt anytime anywhere, even in the midst of a total angry or upset state of mind. People definitely can control whether or not they are happy, but they don’t have all control. People in a way don’t have control over whether they can be happy. The environment and/or circumstances they are under definitely contribute to whether or not they are happy. A student can be happy, talking with friends laughing, but if they get a test back and it’s a 37% that affects their mood. It’s hard to be happy and choose to be happy when you just failed a test, some may say “yeah a 37%” but most will probably be angry. The circumstance of failing a test controls their mood. Or an adult may be happy, has a partner, kids, a nice house, but then are laid off from their job. Them losing a job can affect their mood and make them unhappy for a long time, and it’s hard to choose to be happy when you lost a job and have no income coming in. Even just where you are and who you are with can affect someone’s mood. Maybe a person is in a room with people they dread, the jerk who taps too loudly, the guy who always clicks their pen, the woman who always has something to say. That can take a toll on their mood, and I know it’s hard for me to be happy when there are many people around me that do things that are so annoying to me.
In another sense people can choose to be happy. In America people have a freedom of opinion and freedom of speech. Not one person is forced to feel no emotion. In a novel the honors English 1 class is reading, called Anthem, no one is allowed to laugh, and people are forced to be serious all day. Also, although serious it is also said that all people must be happy at all times, because being happy for their brother men is required. Unlike this book, people in the real world can laugh and can choose to be happy or not. If they are in a sour mood, they don’t have to be happy because if they aren’t they’ll be punished. Being happy is our choice as individuals. Contradicting what I’ve just said, depending on the severity of the circumstances people can choose to be happy. Maybe a student gets an 85% on a test and instead of being angry that it’s not an A, will be happy that it’s not a D. Or if someone is laid off, they could be mad or they could decide that “I get to spend more time with my family” is better and therefore be happy. So happiness is a choice, but some circumstances take away that option, and in certain scenarios happiness is not an option.
Eloquently explained. A great amount of poignant details in this post - well done.
DeleteBoth paragraphs work very well, especially if looking at the first as the foundation for the second. Introducing the idea of perspective and possible reactions to occurences in the last two sentences is intelligent. Also, props on mentioning a novel, and especially an Ayn Rand one.
DeleteHappiness is something that makes a person feel good, and it can change their entire view on the world. fFor the most part, happiness is something people can influence, but this is not always the case. Different people like different things and these things bring different amounts of joy to people. If people choose to do the things that make them happy, instead of just sitting around, then in general, they will be a. much happier person.
ReplyDeleteThis is not always the case though. Some people, such as person that is clinically depressed, can not control their happiness. The things that used to make them so happy may just be another miserable event in their life now. Often medicine is required for these people, and sometimes that does not even work. So yes, for the most part people have an influence in their happiness, but that does not mean that s always the case.
Did you reply to someone else's blog? Need specific examples for each one of your reasons - elaborate and explain what you mean.
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ReplyDeleteFormer President Abraham Lincoln once said “Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." I find this to be absolutely true because some people that don’t want to be happy never will be, while others who try to make things better for themselves are usually happier. A happier person could get a gift that doesn’t totally satisfy them but still feel happy because they received a gift at all. Whereas, an unhappy person can receive a gift that they wanted but not feel complete content because they have set themselves up to be unhappy. Most people have control over their happiness, it’s whether they choose to be happy or unhappy that changes them.
As previously stated,” most” people have control of their happiness and sadness. There are a few exceptions to having control of your own happiness. People with mental disorders and disabilities can’t control how they feel towards themselves or towards the world sometimes. For example, people with depression aren’t able to lift themselves up from under the heavy feeling of sadness that weighs them down on a daily basis. For people like that they have to fight for a sliver of the happiness that comes natural to everybody else which is saddening.
Good use of mental and mood disorders in this post.
DeleteSteven Montoya
ReplyDeletePeriod 3
I think happiness is something you choose. I say this because happiness has certain steps to achieve it. For example if you like a girl and you want to be with her you have to take steps. You can reach happiness if you get with the girl otherwise you will just have to look for a different way. Happiness can be achieved in many ways depending on what you do for it. Taking risks may be a part of getting happiness.
My personal experience with achieving happiness is good to me. I reached happiness when I get new things. In order to get what I want I help my family and do certain things. When I do these things I help whoever needs help and when we go out somewhere I get what I want. This works for me a lot of times. This is how I reach happiness.
Good examples, but remember to reply to someone else's blog and try to be on time with the posts.
DeleteIn my opinion, I feel that happiness can be controlled and just come naturally. Happiness can be controlled because many people suffer from depression and it is not easy to be happy all of the time. They think of the world as a dark and lonely place. People with depression also tend to feel worthless or that there is no reason to continue living. That is all negative thinking and behavior. In this case, happiness can be controlled or a choice.
ReplyDeleteI also think that happiness can be a natural thing. Some people are just born with or learn to have an optimistic quality about them. Optimistic people tend to focus on that good outcome from a negative event. I happen to be that kind of person who will mainly think of the good things that happen even though something terrible has occurred. I can’t stay mad and let all of the crap bring me down because life is too short to worry too much when there could be more happiness in my lifetime.
People with depression cannot control their mood due to a chemical imbalance, which is why it is a disorder. I disagree with you in that respect. It is not a matter of thoughts only, but a physical deficiency of specific neurological signals in the brain.
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ReplyDeleteAnthony Cifuentes
1/10/14
Period 9
I personally think happiness is something that we have control over. Happiness usually varies from person to person. Some people can be proud of what they’ve accomplished in life so far and are excited to see what life brings to them next. While, there is also some people who wish they can make many changes in their life and expected to be somewhere and aren’t pleased with themselves.
It all depends on who has the right mindset. I’m not trying to offended anybody but if you're positive and hope that something will finally go your way, it will. If you keep thinking about the right things, happiness will come. Happiness is knowing that everything is going good and life and your content with what things are occurring around you. If you keep wondering why things are the way they are, and aren’t doing anything about that. Nothing will change. It’s all a matter of what you envision and having the right or wrong mentality.
Incomplete paragraphs - 4 sentences is not a paragraph. Also, make sure to explain and elaborate on your reasons with specific examples and details.
DeleteThe post has to be original, not from a website, in order to receive credit.
ReplyDeleteAdam Diaz
ReplyDeleteI think that some people can choose to be happy and some can't. For example emos choose to be unhappy. They do not have to be unhappy but they choose to be and I honestly don't know why. Then there is people that are optimists that choose to make the best out of things and be happy all the time. I feel like being an optimist is a lot better than being a pessimist because what's the point in life if you choose to live it with no joy. I think that happiness is what we all want, of course everyone wants money but money is used to buy things that make you happy and what you are getting in the end is happiness.
There are some people who can't control their happiness though. For example, myself, I can't control my happiness. If I'm really upset and I see something funny I can't really stay upset I'll laugh at it. There is definitely a lot of people like that, not everyone is a pessimist or an optimist there is a lot of people in the middle. You can see the bad things at one time and see the good at other times. Some people might actually like being sad but I definitely do not and I like to be happy. If I could choose to be happy all the time I definitely would because it just feels better to be happy and like I said before all we want in life is happiness.
Happiness is something we all have control over each and every day. Everyone has a different idea of what happiness is to them. For some of us, happiness can be as simple as living each day to the fullest while others aren’t happy unless they have everything they desire. We control happiness because we decide what makes us happy in life. We also control how we respond to changes in our lives.
ReplyDeleteObviously, we all face tragedy and sadness at some point in our lives. Deciding how to overcome the sadness and find a way to be happy can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. There are so many things that we have control over while there are so many things that we have no control over. Enjoying the people and things around us can make us happier each day. Enjoying what we have and not always wanting more, can make us happier. Enjoying the little things in life and not always comparing yourself to others, can help make us happier. Happiness is a state of mind that we can all control.
Happiness is a choice? I believe that it is, yes but I am not strongly confident with my answer. For example, there are those times when you are sad and then someone does something funny to cheer you up and you laugh not wanting to. I do say that you have the ability to change your emotions although most of the time you cannot fully control them. The same for people who are homosexual, they cannot choose to like the same gender or not. If you are happy one does have the command of changing to angry but one also cannot restrain something your body and mind does without you intending to. Similar to when you blink you can have the choice of blinking but also when you are not trying to your body does it for you. Emotions change depending on what makes you laugh, sad, happy, angry, excited, scared, tired, etc.
ReplyDeleteWhat does happiness mean to me? Happiness is the light in my life. Feeling happy is the best feeling one should experience because when one is happy one is healthy or loves their life at that moment. I am happy when I get a present, when it is a holiday, dinner with my family, vacations, when all my homework is done, when my phone is at a 100%, eating my favorite snack, etc. Happiness is when one feels pleasure from others things.