Ever since I was a child, my mother has always taught me the importance of caring and loving others. I was raised in such a close-knit family that has practiced these values forever. I have always been, and will always be, the type of person to prioritize the happiness of others, especially my loved ones. My happiness feeds off of the happiness of those around me. If I don’t see smiles on the faces of my grandparents, parents, siblings, cousins, and friends, it is very difficult for me to be happy myself…it is nearly impossible.

As I grew up and realized that the world is, unfortunately, filled with selfish people, I was able to realize the power and goodness that selflessness can be to an individual’s life. This realization has only resulted in me being more aware of my actions and behavior towards others. I believe that this world can become a better place if each and every one of us dedicates our lives to the happiness of others. Yes, it is okay to do nice things for yourself once in awhile, but a person should never minimize the power that lies in selfless actions.

In my opinion, positivity has a lot to do with selflessness. As I stated previously, I was blessed to have been taught such significant values at a young age. Selflessness is second-nature to me, it is just who I am. For some people, selflessness takes some time to learn, adjust to, and adapt to. For some, it is a goal, a destination. It is not something that can be learned overnight because it comes from within. It comes from the heart. It starts with being a positive person, a person who sees the world differently and interprets it with the utmost optimism and hope.

My mother and I were recently discussing how all of the evils and tragedies that occur in the world are highlighted through the media. This is a commonly known fact, and it is so upsetting to think that humanity is focused and distracted by the evil in the world. There is so much good that goes unnoticed, so much good that is obstructed by the immorality that is completely taking over and controlling modern society as a whole.

I see myself as a good person. Am I perfect? Absolutely not. Do I try my best to be a good person and make the ones around me happy? I can confidently say that I do. That I try my very best to improve the lives of others. That I dedicate my time to making others feel good about themselves, to assure them that they are great people and that their capabilities are endless.

I don’t think that there are many things better than making someone’s day. Offering a stranger a compliment. Surprising your mother with flowers and a card that expresses your appreciation. Reminding your friends how much they mean to you…telling them that you really couldn’t go through life without them. The opportunities are endless to put a smile on someone’s face. Not only will you be making someone else happy, but I promise you that you will feel so good in the end.

"Don't be selfish; don't live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself." — Philippians 2:3