Last night, I watched an interview about one of my favorite artists, Alicia Keys. She talked about her new album, Here. There was one question in particular that really stood out to me. The interviewer asked, “What is your favorite song on the album?” Alicia Keys pondered for a moment before stating that “Illusion of Bliss” was her favorite. She said she questioned several people about what makes them happy. She alluded to the fact that many of the things that make us happy may truly be smoking ashes.

The conversation surrounding the song’s concept really made me think. How many of us continue to walk through life not knowing our purpose? Often times, we choose the popular or convenient option towards the road to happiness. Happiness is a lot like money; when it comes easily it leaves just the same way. We don’t like taking the hard, sometimes painful road to pursue the breathtaking view at the top of the mountain. I always like to think of true happiness as that thing you will do for free. It’s what makes you smile when no one else is around. It’s one of your first thoughts in the morning and one of your last before you go to sleep.

Who really wants to live under the haze of an illusion? Don’t get me wrong. We have all been there before; searching for what gives us fulfillment. However, there are certain aspects of happiness that we should not compromise on. Happiness should never cause you to disrespect yourself, only strive to please others and leave you feeling hollow once the adrenaline rush leaves. Do you really want to be happy? Find what drives your passion. Find what boils the blood in your veins. Look for what you are willing to stand for, even if no one else does.

Are you living in true happiness or just the illusion of bliss?

Oh and speaking of happiness, I’m so excited for next Friday (November 11th)! Stay tuned as I’ll be making an announcement about my new book, Stingrays.

Today also marks day 3 of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo). Get your copy of my debut novel, Fortune Cookie, before the sequel comes out next year!