True happiness lies in unbreakable bonds

What defines true happiness? Must one be in possession of a best friend to be happy, or is it possible to continue through life without that significant other?

After my family and I moved from Acworth, I felt like my whole world had been torn apart. I had a best friend, whom I still talk to but not nearly as much as before. I feel as if I do not even know her anymore.

Everything changed, as I knew it would. Yet try as I might, I still found myself totally unprepared for what happened.

When my friendship disintegrated and I realized that I was alone, my books and their characters became my world.

My stepsister always teases me for becoming obsessed with different series such as "Harry Potter" or "Lord of the Rings."

She does not understand the pain I feel, though. She does not know how badly I want a strong, solid friendship again.

All I desire is someone to talk to and go hang out with, the same kind of bond that I shared with my former best friend.

Yet even as I write this, and my cat curls up on the desk in front of me, I know the definition of true happiness to be love.

Love exists in so many forms that it is oftentimes unrecognizable. In the rush to find equilibrium when my family and I moved from the familiar, I had forgotten that there were others in my life besides my dearest friends who made me happy.

True bliss cannot be found in material items or acquaintances. Instead, relationships with family and friends create an unbreakable bond.

Being wanted and needed, or just missed, provides more happiness than most realize. Think about it.

Does it not make you feel better when someone says that they have missed you, even if barely a day has passed since the last time you were together?

Happiness does not stem from one good friendship. It comes from many strong friendships. I realize that now. Being alone is not always the best solution to your problems.

Keep friends close. Love your family even though they may drive you crazy.

You never realize how much someone means to you until they are taken away.