American Currency

                                               Happiness

The smell of wet socks and moldy lasagna passed through the air.  The bus took a stop for what seemed the millionth time.  Enduring the two-hour bus ride after school to reach my advanced Art class; this should have been painful, yet I smiled in happiness. My travel represented my pursuit of knowledge, one which I had earned and would fully appreciate.

I remembered applying to enroll in the course at the beginning of eighth grade, feeling unchallenged by the art classes in my neighborhood community center. "You’re too young to be taking this course''. "All our students are college students, pursuing degrees in visual arts,”the counselor said, barely glancing at my application. "I’m young, but I’m ready to learn," I said. Startled by my insecure confidence, he doubtfully picked up my application.  “You’ve drawn these portraits?” he asked after looking through my portfolio.  Sensing his attention, I started discussing my interest in the arts.  “I would be making an exception by allowing you into this course.  Let’s talk next week,” he said an hour later.

        The following Friday my acceptance email arrived, and I embarked on my journey into the world of art. My passion for in-depth exploration of this subject, continues to bring me happiness because it allows me to make unexpected discoveries about myself. Happiness is the complete freedom to pick up a paintbrush and represent an ordinary object in an entirely new way.  It is the driving force behind my decision to commute hours to reach a place where my enthusiasm and passion are encouraged.  Simply, my art brings me happiness.