my family is everything to me. i have more love for my children than i can ever express, and this is part of my satisfaction. but, what is the secret to obtaining happiness? family and friends have something to do with it, but it's much more than that. in my pursuit for happiness i have come to realize that my children will grow up and leave our home to fulfill their own destiny, and this is the way it should be. they are here to experience and to grow, and they will do so in their own way. i won't be able to take away their sorrows, nor plan their joys. all i can do is be there for them and be supportive when they need it. all i can do is love them. during my lifetime i have done a lot of soul searching to find the answer to my quest, and i think love is the answer. i must believe in others as jesus requested. this is the only way to be truly happy. i should strive to be kind, patient, and try to help others along the way. i know if i can put myself last and love others exactly as they are - without expectations, i will find the key to why i am here. if this thought is truly captured in my soul, then it will take me back to the new testament and to christ's teachings. without love, i am nothing - but if i bring god into my life, i can accomplish all things.