We find happiness in the outside world, in pleasurable, finite conversations or experiences. Joy, however, I believe is different. We are made happy, but we create Joy, both in ourselves and others. This is because joy consists of an act of the will. An act of the will to call to mind all that is true, good, and beautiful, and to convert those things into a positive lifestyle. Thus our experiences, relationships, and goals all serve to hinder or help our sense of joy. Luckily I've been shaped by many positive childhood experiences. I've always possessed a vivid imagination, particularly concerning old things. As a child, I remember spending hours outside playing Revolutionary and Civil War soldier, or Davy Crockett and the Indians. I always played these games alone, free from the opinions or pesky distractions of non-history-buffs. I fashioned period costumes and shamelessly ran about the front yard with a toy musket and flag. I no longer maintain my former attitude of a carefree nerdy child, but those experiences formed the template for the things I now find joy in. I still love old things--old music, artwork, houses, old clothes, old books, etc. Life was simpler years ago, and the artifacts reflect that simplicity in their sublime human touch, free from the precision of technology. I also take seriously my Catholic faith and draw comfort from its doctrine and rich tradition. These things I almost always enjoy alone. While a TV show or a get-together with friends provide more short-term entertainment, and do bring happiness, my faith and interests provide the material out of which I can fashion a real sense of joy, and share that with others.

1. I deserve this scholarship because I am stunningly handsome, can yodle, and can twiddle my thumbs rapidly. With these qualifications, the judges cannot overlook my application. 2. I'd like two swimming pools. I'll fill one with water, and one with money. That is my goal. If I'm swimming and spending money all day every day, which I will be, then I won't need a career or an academic. Academics are for round lawyers and square librarians--people who don't have two swimming pools. 3. Obstacles are tricky. You can go around them, jump over them, or hit them. Go around them, you lose time, jump over them, you might fall, run into them, you might lose a tooth--unless it's a soft obstacle. I once ran into a screen door. What else could I do? There was no way around it. I will run headlong into danger, but I won't turn around. I had to hit the door. Afterward, I realized I chose rightly. It was soft. I broke the screen door, but not my tooth. My advice: don't overcome obstacles, just break them.