I have learned that the only thing that I have in my control is the choices I make, in response to any stimuli I am subjected to internally and/or externally.
Janis Joplin powerfully sang "freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose" but even that is a choice made. That someone, would feel that they have nothing so why should they keep trying to be happy. I say "choose happy" as much as you can. Take the risks and have the experiences. Keep changing in the process and really live. It's choice.