Cost of the Good Life

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The question of “What is the good life?” is one that I was challenged with by Professor Curta on that first day of class in mid-August. Over the course of a few short months I have examined the many aspects of this question while at the same time applying the concepts to my own life. Everyone’s answer to this age old question is a little different, and is completely dependent on the influences and goals of the individual. To me the good life consists of having a stable future and a group of close friends to spend it with. But like all good things, this does not come without a cost. For me these costs are, having to leave some of my childhood friends behind. As hard as this may be I know that it is for the better, and I keep my eyes on the task at hand, in the hopes of finding that good life.
My definition of the good life is not one that I fashioned overnight. It required me to look into myself and ask why I chose to live my life in the ways that I do. The first part of my definition, having a stable future, refers to me pursuing the best education possible and later obtaining a high paying job. The second part, having a close group of friends, is just like it seems. It is not possible to succeed without the love and support of others, and it is near impossible to be happy without them as well. One of the largest choices in my life so far has been my decision to attend the University of Florida. I wanted to major in computer science, and UF has one of the top programs in the state. This directly corresponds with my definition, as obtaining the best education possible will lead me to a stable future. I am confident that my choice was the correct one, but that does not mean that it came without consequences.
It is like I said be...

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...st of the good life is something that everyone who seeks it must face. It is up to the individual to decide if that choice is worth it. In my case leaving some of my childhood friends behind was worth continuing my education at the institution of my choice. I have no regrets in this decision and would, if given the chance, make the same choice again. If one cannot be completely confident in the way they choose to live their life, than maybe they are not seeking their true good life. I know that having a stable future and a group of close friends to spend it with is my good life. And even though I had to separate from some of my closest friends I still try to keep in touch with them, so that I continue to have their friendship and support throughout my life. I have also begun to build new relationships here at UF, starting the next chapter in my newly unfolding life.

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