Reply to comment

 Based on the definition of serendipity found by Maiya, people should allow serendipity in their lives.  Unexpected happiness reminds people that good things can happen even when they are not in control.  If a person is too worried about making the right choices, she can be too distracted to notice an “unexpected  discovery of happiness”.  I don’t think it is a matter of “allowing” serendipity, but rather being open and attentive to discover it.  Serendipity can also relate to coincidence.  We see coincidence when we look for it, much like we experience serendipity when we are open to it.  For example, in class Eva told us how she found a red ribbon on her door when she had been thinking about how great it would be to wear one with her outfit.  This is coincidence, but also an unexpected happy discovery.  If she had not been observant enough to find the red ribbon, she would have missed her opportunity of serendipity. 

            Serendipity played a role in my life today.  After math class, my roommate and I decided to go to the campus center to check our mailboxes.  I wasn’t expecting any packages, but I found that desired slip of paper in my mailbox telling me I had one.  It turned out that I had gotten an early birthday gift!     

I agree with Maiya that serendipity is a chance occurrence, but people who have a more open outlook on life may find serendipity more often.  It also depends on people’s level of happiness.  If a person does not find joy in finding the perfect hair ribbon, getting a package, or other simple joys of life, then they will experience serendipity less often than others.