I think that everyone should be happy, so I have some suggestions of what to do in everyday life that could make you a happier person.

Going for a ride, reading a good book, spending time with friends, taking time with the elderly, going to the hospital and visiting the sick are a few examples of things that could make not only you happy, but others.

Do something special for someone once in a while and watch them smile. You will feel so much better.

Tell your family you love them every day and you might just beam with joy. For happiness one needs security, but joy can spring like a flower even from the cliffs of despair.

Happiness is what you think, what you say and what you do in harmony. So, what is the secret to living a full and happy life?

Well, when you are thinking, saying and breathing happiness, the result is happiness.

What are those two elements upon which all of life thrives? It is so simple that many miss out. Love and gratitude! All things that make us happy thrive on love and gratitude. Happiness is not a reward, it is a consequence.

Virginia Freeman is a Saxe resident and guest columnist for The Charlotte Gazette. Her email is vstars@pure.net.