I love TED Talks. I like to know random, pointless information, and ted.com has a video for just about everything.

The videos range from inspiring, to educational, to funny, and more. I find them entertaining, so I want to share some of my favorites. 

Looks aren’t everything. Believe me, I’m a model.

This is my personal favorite talk. In this talk, Cameron Russell talks about how so many things and opportunities have been given to her just because of the way she looks… and she also talks about how none of those things made her happy or fulfilled. Because I often compare myself to these types of girls, this is a great reminder that superficial things do not make people happy.

How I held my breath for 17 minutes

This talk is awesome… stuntman and magician David Blaine talks about his entire journey to being able to hold his breath for 17 minutes. This talk is incredible and showed me that people can push themselves way harder than they think they can- and it is funny!

War and what comes after

Clemantine Wamariya tells her story about her experience growing up in the Rwandan Civil War. I have read about this war before, and it never ceases to blow my mind. Clemantine illuminates the fact that violence is going on all around the world. This talk is emotional, eye-opening, and inspiring.

Want to be happy? Be grateful

The key to happiness? Grateful living. Brother David Steindl-Rast, a monk and faith scholar, discusses gratefulness and how it makes us happy. He talks about how gratefulness is what creates happiness, which is what all humans desire. This talk is a great reminder that we are all so blessed, and just remembering that creates happiness in our lives. 

The health benefits of clowning around

Professional clown Matthew A. Wilson spent a decade trying to cheer up sick children in hospitals. He truly believes that laughter is the best medicine. Every time I watch this talk, it reminds me that there is happiness within suffering. As a clown, he brings hope to kids who feel like they have none.

I hope these talks made you feel happy, inspired, or educated, as they have done for me. Be sure to check out the TED website to find some talks that interest you!

Be well, Auburn.