Life is filled with many twists, turns, and obstacles that we can't always control. These can make life feel quite hectic, making us question who we are and what our purpose is in life. While we can't always control what happens to us, we can maintain some consistency and gain comfort from what I call a "safe haven." A safe haven, to me, is a place you can go to recover from a day's pain, confusion, and madness. A safe haven provides stability and allows you to reflect upon your life and the path you're currently on. In my safe havens, I find peace and tranquility, courage and confidence, all in one place.

A safe haven can even be somebody who you feel very comfortable around, such as a good friend or significant other. These people never judge you and they encourage you to be who you are and celebrate your life while providing advice with patience and understanding. These people will never try to bring you down, but rather try to lift you up, even if you've made a mistake or failed yourself or others in some way. After all, harping on someone's mistakes or wrongdoings doesn't that person any better--educating him or her and providing advice does.

There are a few places that I would consider to be my safe havens at my current home, University of Louisiana Monroe. It took a while for me to find these places because I only recently discovered the importance of safe havens. Safe havens truly keep me grounded and help me cope with any difficulties I've faced throughout the day.

My first safe haven is the Starbucks on my campus. While it may seem cliche for Starbucks to be one of my safe havens, it truly is! I go there to meet my friends, talk with Odyssey writers, and recharge after a tough class or exam. It's one of the only places on campus that reminds me of home back in New Jersey and it provides me with that coveted "hipster" vibe that I search for. The atmosphere there is so calming, giving me even more reason to go there often.

My second safe haven is my own dorm room. Nestled near the corner of my apartment building, my room is a place of peace. I can look out the window and see beautiful scenery and even the bayou. The apartments on campus are very beautiful and are separated from the university itself. The apartment complex has its own special vibe; while they're connected to campus, the apartments feel like a small town away from my college and they remind me of my home.

My third safe haven is anywhere near the bayou. Taking some time to stargaze near the bayou or stand on the walking bridge connecting the apartments to the other half of the university brings lots of joy to my day. The bayou is one of the highlights of ULM's campus and is complimented by the beautiful buildings and green space surrounding it.

In addition to physical safe havens, I also have many close friends who I consider to be safe havens. I have friends both back home and right here in Louisiana who I know will cheer me up and support my decisions. Without them, I don't know how I would survive. The friends I've made in the past few years and the ones I've had for even longer remain one of the greatest joys in my life!

Clearly, safe havens can come in many forms. Whether they are physical locations, people, or even the space between between your ears, they can be very beneficial to your happiness. What are your safe havens?