This I Believe

I believe in the power of laughter. I welcome the warm feeling I get every time I feel my mouth arch upward in a smile. I love the irresistible feeling I get every time I find myself laughing into submission. To receive is one thing, but to give is so much more. I live for the moments each day when I can bring a smile to another's face; the seconds my friends spend laughing with me. I find comfort in knowing that, for perhaps a few brief moments each day, I have brought momentary bliss to another being on this earth.

As a freshman in college, I've yet to really decide what I want to do with my life. I find myself searching within me each day for the answers to countless questions about my identity and I've yet to find definitive answers. But while tomorrow is shrouded in mystery, I have no question about what drives me today. I live my life under the guiding principles of truth, courage, faith, and power; all of which are driven by my desire to make others feel like they belong. I've been on the receiving end of hatred and negativity, and I know what it feels like to think that you're not important, that you don't matter; that for whatever reason, you'll never smile or laugh again. I know the hurt that harsh words can bring about to innocent people, and I know how it feels to be alone.

In spite of these feelings, or perhaps because of them, I deeply appreciate the simplicity of a “hello”, or the warmth of a smile. The feeling that I am part of a group; the knowledge of the fact that people care about me makes all the difference in the world to me some times. I know life can be unpleasant for everyone occasionally, but I try to make sure that I'm not the person that makes it that way.

I've always worn my heart on my sleeve, and because of two wonderful parents, I can say that I have a fairly big heart with enough room for everyone I meet. I never turn anyone away regardless of any difference, and I always strive to be the guy people can turn to when they need help. I'm not bashful about it either; any of my friends will tell you that they knew I was friendly from the moment we met.

I know there are days when some feel like they just can't make it to tomorrow, I know there are moments when some wonder if they should have turned back long ago, I know there are instants when some don't like anything about themselves. Trust me, I've been there before. That's why I believe that regardless of how I'm feeling each day, I make it a point to make everyone I see smile or laugh at least once. People don't realize it at first, but the very action of laughing can change a person's mood for the rest of the day. When I see some one smile, I know that I've done two things: I've made a connection with that person, and I have effectively touched on something that makes them feel better. I know it might not always be an instant fix, but the more I can interact with others and find what makes them feel good, the better my chances are to help them on a day when they could really use a hearty laugh or a warm smile.

It's been said that laughter is the best medicine. While you can't fill out a prescription for it, I think that it's healthy to laugh at least three times a day. Thinking about my future, maybe I'm not so lost after all… maybe I'll be a doctor.

Justin Heegan

Justin Heegan