Look above these words. Look at the maroon banner complete with photos of yours truly in posing in various emotions. Look just to the left of my face. Do you see that phrase, "The Happy Wanderer"? That would be the title of this journal. Now why would I have given an exposition of my writings and feelings such a moniker? Is it a nickname I have embraced? Is it a song lyric from my favorite musician? Is it an original assembly of words? Is it a lesson for us all?

"The Happy Wanderer" is the title of a Sopranos episode and focuses on Tony's self-revelation that he scours at other people's happiness yet so desparately yearns for what they have. He notices the upbeat, optimistic people on the street--- whom he refers to as "happy wanderers"--- and wants to strangle them for twiddling their thumbs and singing a happy tune and waving their top hat in public. Happiness comes from one's own perceptions, though, and Tony recognizes that at times he is the happy wanderer. When the joy is his to hold, he wears it on his sleeve proudly. You might be in a down mood one day, and it seems as though the streets are littered with people who could never be happier. Part of you grows envious and angry, but Tony decides that even when his day is not the brightest, he should say, "Ah, good for him," whenever he sees those people who seem to sparkle with glee. Feel good for other people's happiness even when your star is not as bright, for your time to shine will come.