The Many Faces of the Pursuit of Happiness in America

The Declaration of Independence, established 250 years ago, emphasized three pivotal rights: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. While the first two are granted, the pursuit is a personal endeavor for every American, as observed in 2026.

Varied Forms of Pursuit

The quest for happiness varies widely. Many pursue tangible goals such as upward mobility and professional success. Others engage in more abstract pursuits, searching for clarity or purpose. The common thread across America is striving for something better and more fulfilling, suggesting that the pursuit is essential.

Skydiving for Exhilaration

Doug Garr, at 77, has spent significant time in free falls, with nearly 2,500 skydiving jumps. His love for skydiving began at age 20, despite initial fear. Now, post his wife’s stroke, jumping provides stress relief. He remains dedicated to skydiving while acknowledging the future where he might have to stop. “We’re in our element,” he says, escaping reality’s tensions. By Christina Morales with visuals by Meghan Marin

Lighthouse Reflections

Barb and Kyle White serve as volunteer lighthouse keepers in Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin. This role is not only a beacon of happiness but also a period of deep reflection. They spend this time making significant life decisions and enjoying the tranquility it brings. For them, the lighthouse symbolizes guidance and discovery. By Julie Bosman with visuals by Jamie Kelter Davis

Diverse Paths to Happiness

• Trần Vũ Thu Hằng, 64, finds joy in floral design after decades of prioritizing family.
• David Gardner, 60, enriches his life beyond profits through The Motley Fool, learning from the world.
• Min Jin Lee, 57, pursued writing for fulfillment rather than fame in New York City.

Personal Passions

Malcolm McFly, a stage name, intertwines comedy with day-to-day efforts as Malcolm Woods, a software engineer. He aims for a special, needing an hour of polished material, drawing on his insecurities for humor. Laughter, for him, outweighs everything else. By Rick Rojas with visuals by Martina Tuaty

Extraterrestrial Odyssey

Luis Ramallo transformed his vision of a UFO into a tourist attraction in Baker, California, persisting to complete an unconventional dream despite challenges. His Alien Fresh Jerky store represents his ambitions, blending commerce with creativity. By Orlando Mayorquín with visuals by Isadora Kosofsky

Solo Adventures

Known as Pebbles, Susan Semedo journeyed from Boston radio to solo ventures, including traveling for BTS concerts. Embracing her independence, she defies the notion of needing a romantic partner for fulfillment, embracing spontaneity. By Jenna Russell with visuals by Cassandra Klos

Challenge and Resilience

The Sullivan Family reflects on loss after losing their son in a shooting, still seeking moments of joy amid their advocacy against gun violence. By Jack Healy with visuals by Cheney Orr

In Search of Joy

• David D’Antonio, Oakland, finds satisfaction in coaching wrestling, seeing students overcome challenges.
• Manuel Coronado pursues law in the U.S., seizing educational opportunities since arriving from Panama.

Hope in Adversity

Darris Moore, 50, despite a long prison sentence, finds peace through spirituality and mentorship. His new perspective embraces inner freedom and usefulness, finding meaning in small routines and personal growth. By Rick Rojas with visuals by Rory Doyle

Concluding Observations

The stories of these individuals reflect various paths to happiness in America, defined by unique pursuits and underlying resilience. Despite diverse backgrounds and challenges, each person embodies the ongoing quest for meaning and joy within their circumstances.