The Dalai Lama, spiritual and political leader, once said, “The basic thing is that everyone wants happiness; no one wants suffering. And happiness mainly comes from our own attitude, rather than from external factors. If your own mental attitude is correct, even if you remain in a hostile atmosphere, you feel happy.”

In the attempt to plan issue two of the Cougar Clause, one of my fellow staff members raised her hand with what seemed to me as a simple request. She said a student suggested there be more “happy” editorials, and I began to get overly excited, as I do whenever something occurs that’s a little out of the ordinary. I immediately raised my hand and offered to write the editorial thinking it was going to be one of the easiest assignments I’ve done. All the staff members proceeded to joke with me, saying it was a great assignment for me, and I agreed. I love to be happy, and I love seeing others happy.

My plan was to write a “Ten Ways to Have a Good Day” list, but I soon realized that would be a waste of room on this page if I did so. How silly of me to think I could create a list of things everyone could do and be absolutely happy. If I could have it my way, a Mountain Dew would fulfill everyone’s hopes and dreams. Sadly enough, a carbonated soft drink isn’t going to put a smile on everyone’s face. So what is the answer to happiness?

The Dalai Lama explained it perfectly. No external factor is going to bring true happiness to anyone. Although I may sound like Mr. Rogers, happiness really does come from inside. It’s one’s attitude and state of being that is going to bring true, long-term happiness. Once

internal happiness has been discovered, smiles will burst out like confetti on New Years Eve.

Don’t be afraid to sing out loud or break out in a dance. Life is about having fun and being happy. Find what makes the jitters inside dance around. This, my friend, is the answer to happiness.

Ashleigh Gann is the ad designer for the Cougar Clause. She is a senior and this is her third semester on staff.