People like to tell me I'm an optimist. This always comes as a surprise to me because growing up, I always feared the worst, worried about what I couldn't change, and wished things that I couldn't control were different. I fit the classic definition of a pessimist. Even my mom, who's been there for me through it all, made me aware of my tendency to focus on the things that were going wrong. So recently, I asked myself, "Where did this apparent change in attitude come from? Am I really the optimist that people think I am? Or am I merely good at putting on a positive face for others? After all, it is easier to see the good in other people's hard situation than your own."

I've done some self-reflection recently though, and have been catching myself making positive comments in less than ideal situations. Each of these moments have surprised me, and left me amazed at my ability to be the upbeat person I didn't think I could be, come inconvenient situations. However, I really do believe now that I have, at least somewhat, transformed into an optimist. I still have my moments when I think my world is crumbling, and the smallest burdens seem to weigh a million tons on my shoulders. But now, I take a breath, and make a game plan. I also usually still call my mom, but I don't believe there ever really comes a time you're too old to empty your emotions and stresses to Mom.

Where did the switch happen though? This is a question to which I still don't have an answer. I don't think it really matters though, I'm just glad it happened. I have found that making it a habit to look at the bright side of things brings meaning to life. It's cheesy, I know, but I feel lucky to live a life filled with opportunity. Every morning that I wake, I am granted the biggest gift of all - another day of life to do something huge. I am given another full day to perform to my highest potential, to touch the lives of more people, and to do so more deeply. I grew up hearing the phrase, "It's better than the alternative," and it's true. No matter how miserable a situation is, it's better to be above the ground, because as great as earthworms, plant roots, and soil are, humans, puppies, birds, flowers, trees, open air, land to run across, and sunlight to soak in are better.

There is nothing, literally nothing, and no one standing between me and the chance to make change. I have been given everything to enjoy this planet and this life to its fullest. I go to a school with professors bursting with knowledge they're dying to share with me. I am surrounded by people with experiences I could never dream up, that could change my entire way of thinking, if I just had a conversation with them. I am lucky enough to be in the best physical condition, and the healthiest I've ever been. There are millions of moments and laughter waiting to be had. There is also frustration, anger, and sadness waiting for me to be weak enough to let them in, but I will choose to squash those into as tiny of threats as I can. They won't let me live a life of darkness.

Maybe it's the longer days, growing sunlight, and increasing temperatures. Maybe it's the confidence and certainty of cementing plans for the summer and coming year that are dissolving the fear of the unknown. I don't know. But whatever it is that helps you enjoy every moment more, let it. Being a more positive person will be worth it.

Now, I don't know if I'm truly as much of an optimist as people think I am--I still have plenty of negative thoughts and emotions--but I know the benefits of optimism. I know I am capable of growing into a better, happier person with each increasingly positive thought that I have. And I know that the more I am able to share this happiness, hopefully, the happier the people and community around me will become as well. Each morning I'm blessed with the option to color my day in dark with a solid black marker, or to illuminate each moment with a highlighter of opportunity and joy. You can bet I'll be choosing the highlighter. (Or at least, I'll be trying to.) I suggest you do too.