The world seems, especially within the past year, as if it is a black hole that everyone is slowly being sucked into. Many people have grown cold and indifferent because of the slew of misfortunes that 2016 seemed to keep on pitching. When things go wrong, it's hard to maintain a positive outlook; especially when it seems as if shootings, racism and general indecency plague our society.

Fortunately enough, good still exists in a lot of things, people and places. While horrible things seem more memorable, we must stop forgetting how kindness feels. How many times has someone gone out of their way to make you smile, or feel better? How many times have you done something to make someone's day better? It's questions like these that we must ask ourselves to stay grounded.

Pain is numbing, devouring and often times disheartening to those who feel as if their world is falling to pieces in front of them. With an emotion so powerful, we give it the right of way to embalm us in its flames. Maintaining positive takes more than a smile: it is self-discipline, self-love and a whole lot of practice. Being happy isn't always the easiest option, but it's always the most worth it.

Always be kind to someone, including yourself. You make a difference in this world; happiness is a domino effect, and the most infectious feeling on earth. Be the person that you can't find in the world.