Choose Happiness by Emily

Choose Happiness by Emily - July 2016 Scholarship Essay

I say “I am lucky,” and am met with quizzical gazes. People have certain expectations when one has gone through difficult times. I am fortunate to have learned the power of choosing happiness. I was taught this by Holly Stanfield, my teacher and mentor.
I’ve admired Holly for years and heard what an amazing teacher she was. What didn’t know was how life-changing she would be.
My father was diagnosed in 2012 with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. He underwent a bone marrow transplant and other surgeries and passed in 2015. The ordeal was a roller-coaster of emotions, hopeful for a cure, remission; devastated by Cancer’s return – over and over.
My dad and I were so close, in part, because I am an only child. We loved skiing and sailing together.
With my father’s failing health, I began having problems with anxiety.
Holly would say to the class; “You can have a happy life… You have the responsibility to choose happiness.” This infiltrated my perception of the situation.
Yes, my father was ill for a long time and it is sad he isn’t here to cheer me on nor hug me.
It’s my choice to wallow in what I don’t have or to be grateful that I did have a great father. I have the power to build a happy life.