The Good Life In Walden By Henry David Thoreau

Throughout my life, I have been blessed to embark on adventures all around the world. I remember my first trip was when I was five years old, my whole family and I went on a cruise. This was the first time I was immersed into a new culture and I was exhilarated. I found it extremely fascinating how there are endless opportunities and experiences to have outside of your own town. We explored different towns that had their own unique charm, and encompassed countless areas, which were unbelievable to see. After this trip, I realized the immense amount of satisfaction gained from visiting different places and seeing what they all have to offer. This is why I have made it a priority to accept every opportunity given to travel to another place because

Thoreau completely cut himself off from society and lived simply. While spending his time in the woods, he discovered that society is too routined. “We meet at meals three times a day, and give each other a new taste of that old musty cheese that we are(Thoreau).” Thoreau is explaining that everyday, we wake up, do the same things, talk to the same people, and become so consumed in this routine that we do not give other people or things a chance. He believes that the “good life” entails not meeting up with the same people everyday, because the less people meet up, the better the conversation, when they do(Thoreau). Ultimately, Thoreau believes that his “good life” was reached in the presence of no one but himself and he was able to reach his

Jane Austen exemplifies this idea, beginning at Mr. Bingley’s ball. Elizabeth overhears Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy talking about a suitable partner for Mr. Darcy, he exclaims “she is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me(Austen).” When most people would he angered by such a statement, Elizabeth completely dismisses it and believes it to be funny. This demonstrates that Elizabeth is confident and happy with herself, and she does not need a man to be content. The “good life” is also shown in Pride and Prejudice through the love of family. When Jane gets sick at Mr. Bingley’s house during the storm, Elizabeth walks to his house to care for her sister. This shows the unbreakable bond family creates and how the love of family can lead you to the “good life.” Lastly, the “good life” is shown in a unique way in the movie, What Dreams May Come. In the beginning, there is a lot of heartache and tragedy, between the death of the children, and the husband. Where the “good life” comes into play is at the end of the movie. The wife, Annie, is able to leave Hell and stay in Heaven with her husband, Chris. This shows that no matter what you’re doing or where you are, as long as you are surrounded by the people who you love, you can live a happy