How Does Elizabeth Eckford Define Happiness

The Self Defines the True Meaning of Happiness

People are more motivated to do things that benefit themselves. Often times, most people are beyond concerned about self-interest rather then helping others. In other words, we focus more on what makes us happy and focus less on other people’s happiness. Elizabeth Eckford, an African American woman who faced a rebellious experience in a racist community followed her own passion by attending school. She knew that if she goes to school, there is a chance that her dream of becoming a lawyer would be effective. On the other hand, Hazel Massery also seeked self interest because she wanted attention and she’s always worried about her happiness. When an individual is focused on the self, they are not

It is the idea that our actions matter the most and we create meaning by doing the things we love to live a fulfilling life. We don’t need to help or care about others to create a meaningful life. Instead, people should focus on what excites them because often times, we place other people’s happiness before our own. Elizabeth created meaning in her life in many different ways. Although she walked through the walls of death, Elizabeth was passionate about school. She knew her goals and wanted to achieve them in anyway possible. She wanted to become a lawyer and the only way to get there is by going to school. Her grandfather often tells Elizabeth that “[out] of all his grandchildren, Elizabeth was, if not necessarily his favorite, the one for whom he held the highest hopes [for].” (Margolick 8) On the other side, Hazel always wanted attention. She always thought too highly of herself. She even became a belly dancer and had a couple of boyfriends to drawback the necessary attentionshe sought for. Both Elizabeth and Hazel had different dreams that they wanted to pursue alone. While They were too busy worrying about themselves they were still a part of something bigger than