According to yourdictionary.com, "the pursuit of happiness is defined as a fundamental right mentioned in the Declaration of Independence to freely pursue joy and live life in a way that makes you happy, as long as you don't do anything illegal or violate the rights of others."
Most people, including myself, are searching for their pursuit of happiness. As a college student, you have to choose a major and a career path that you want to pursue. Prospective income, job duties, hours required, and happiness within the career you choose are some of the determining factors for the major you declare.
Over the past few months, I have received many comments on the major I have chosen — elementary education with an early childhood endorsement — and most of the comments have been negative: "Good luck with that," "Oh, you're too smart to be a teacher," "You're going to school for the wrong thing," "I started out with that major, but switched because there is just no money in that career path." These comments insulted me. I am very passionate about making an impact on children's lives, and I feel the call to be a teacher. I have done plenty of research into the salaries of teachers; however, money is not what matters the most to me. A career which does not seem pleasing to others, does not mean I cannot pursue that career. It will make the children I teach and me happy.
I am sure other college students have, at some point, heard negative comments about their major. I want to encourage students who receive comments like I do.
Pursue what is going to make you happy, and most importantly, what God has planned for you. God's plan for you is good, and it will be the best path that you can take in life.
We will not always feel happy in life with where we are, but God has called us to be content in any situation. This is how Paul in the Bible lived his life. Paul was beaten, persecuted, and criticized. In Philippians 4:11-13 Paul writes, "Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me."
This verse is not saying you can lift 500 pounds because God will strengthen you to do it. Rather, it is about being content with whatever situation God has put you in. We can pursue happiness, but if we do not find it, we should be content through whatever circumstances God has placed us in.
Ultimately, pursuing not only what makes us happy, but pursuing God's will is where we can find a happiness no money or possession could fulfill.
