The Smile Project Ambassador Program is your opportunity to be part of a collective movement for joy. We believe that simple changes make a big difference and we know that when we are at our best, we have more to give to our loved ones and our communities. By joining the Ambassador Program, you are embracing the challenge to look for the good each day and to encourage others to do the same. Learn more or sign up today at the-smile-project.com/ambassador.
We are so proud of the folks that make up the ambassador program. Today, we are thrilled to feature Maggie Hess, who started recording “Happiness is” on October 1st, 2020. This is her story.
Liz: Let's start in traditional Smile Project fashion. Give us a favorite "Happiness is.”
Maggie: (Day 210) Happiness is.. sharing your failures for people to see.
Liz: Tell us a little about yourself.
Maggie: Having spent the past few years teaching high school English, I've now gone back to being a student. I'm halfway through an MA in English program at the University of Tennessee Knoxville.
Liz: What made you start writing daily Happiness is?
Maggie: Liz (founder of The Smile Project) has been my inspiration since we went to Westminster College together. As someone who tries to orient toward gratitude and positivity, I've loved following along with The Smile Project's growth. Learning that I could join in as an ambassador felt like a great step!
Liz: How has recording daily joy impacted your life?
Maggie: I am becoming so creative and reflective as I end each day, puzzling over what new thing brought me joy.
Liz: Do you have a favorite quote or piece of advice that keeps you grounded or inspired?
Maggie: "If I have seen further, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants." –Sir Isaac Newton
Knowing where you came from or who helped you to get where you are now is so important. I think Dar Huey (a professor at Westminster College) introduced me to this quote.
Liz: What didn't we ask you that you'd like to share with us?
Maggie: Opossums are vastly underrated marsupials (no shade to the platypus).