Regarding Happiness
Happiness is a state of mind or feeling characterized by contentment, love, satisfaction, pleasure, or joy. -Wikipedia
Life is interesting and complex. There is a whole spectrum of experiences that come with life - good, bad, happy, sad and anything in between. It is this array of experiences that make us who we are.
As annoying and frustrating as down times are, they are not the be all and end all, in fact they are needed. After all, there is no meaning to 'perfect' if there is no imperfection. Happiness holds no meaning if there is nothing to complement it. This is not to say that we should always dwell over problems and sorrows; instead we should be optimistic and try to see the brighter side of things whenever we can.
There is always plenty happening around us, often so much is happening that we cannot acknowledge them all. So, be selective and concentrate on the ones that make you happy, the ones that you like. There is always bound to be something good that is happening; so don't go and make your life harder by looking at those that irk you, because as unfortunate as it is, they often come and find you instead. When they do find you, don't give up - smile, be brave, be optimistic - it won't last forever.
Being happy is one of the most important things in life. As much importance as society today places on material wealth, it doesn't matter how much material wealth you have, they don't mean much if you're not happy. Life is too short and precious to be wasted on our worries, so instead go and find something that you enjoy doing.
Smile, be happy 
November 7th, 2010 - 12:57
Yes, you’re right. There is ALWAYS something to be grateful for – it’s just a matter of finding it. And of course we need the contrast of less-than-happy times, as well. During these times, I find the following quote helps:
“When you’re going through hell, keep going.” – Winston Churchill.
No matter how bad things get, we can always choose to be happy.
Live Life Happy!
November 7th, 2010 - 16:36
That is so true! I think, too, that it’s the harder times that make us stop and take stock of our lives. That’s when we ask ourselves what we’re doing, why we’re doing it… and make drastic changes if that’s what’s needed.
Don’t worry, be happy, 我门永远在一起！Haha, old TV show song…
November 7th, 2010 - 22:25
i could not agree more! I see some people always deprived for attention and acknowledge and they spend most time being upset.. while others shares their happiness around… just walk around the street and smile at a random… you never know how happiness can change someone’s life.
November 8th, 2010 - 23:44
hi all – thanks for the comments
Just a small addition, a quote that I saw today at work which I think is very relevant to this post:
“The way to happiness: Keep your heart free from hate, your mind from worry. Live simply, expect little, give much. Scatter sunshine. Forget self, think of others. Try this for a week and you will be surprised.”
~Norman Vincent Peale
edit:
a link that came in through my RSS feed that is quite relevant to this post: How to be happier