Kai'Yana W., Edwin J Brown Middle School
Choosing Happiness for a Brighter Future
Growing up I knew my mom was never really happy. She acted like she was, but I think it was only because she was high. Her addictions controlled her, and because of that, my siblings and I were not happy either. We ended up in foster care, moving from one house to another. Even though there were a few good moments, it never felt like a real home.
But when I was given the choice of living with my mom or with my aunt. At first, I felt guilty even thinking about leaving my mom, because I didn’t want her to feel like I didn’t care. But the truth was, all the years I spent with her, I had never been truly happy. For once, I wanted to choose myself. If my mom could choose drugs over her kids, then why couldn’t I choose happiness? So, I decided to live with my aunt.
My choice didn’t just affect me; it also influenced my little sister. She saw what I did and decided to take the same path. I was glad. I think my decision gave her the courage to want something better, too. My happiness gave her hope, and that made me realize how much our choices can affect the people around us. Even though it was painful, it showed me that sometimes putting yourself first can actually inspire others.
Living with my aunt hasn’t always been easy, but it has been so much better than before. I have rules now, which sometimes I don’t like, but I know they help me. I have food, clothes, and a safe place to sleep. My aunt makes sure I go to school and pushes me to do my best. Sometimes I get annoyed, but then I think about it and realize that’s what a real parent does. Her care has made me happier, and my attitude has helped make things better at home too, because now my sister and I both feel safe.
This whole experience taught me something important about attitude. Choosing happiness doesn’t mean life gets perfect, but it does mean I get control over my future. Even when people around me weren’t happy, like my mom, I learned I didn’t have to live the same way. My choice showed me that when I decide to be positive and strong, it doesn’t just change me, it can help others too.
I know I will use this lesson in the future. High school will bring peer pressure, hard classes, and times when it feels easier to give up. But now I know I can control my attitude. Later in life, whether it’s about friendships, jobs, or even raising my own family, I’ll remember that I have the power to choose happiness. One quote that reminds me of this is, “Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it.” – Charles R. Swindoll.
