Sometimes I forget.  I forget that no matter what is going on around me that I make choices each and every day.  Some happen without conscious effort (yep, I’m making a choice to breathe).  Some happen with a little more intention (yes, I brushed my teeth this morning before heading out the door).  And still some others take more effort (I very intentionally smile when I see people who I imagine don’t get greeted that way often by someone: -young -white -female -or any combination of those).

If life has taught me anything thus far, it’s that you shouldn’t waste your time on the negative.  Sure, we need to learn from our mistakes (or the mistakes of others).  But I am trying to be an agent of positivity.  I can’t change everything, but I can actively try to change my perspective, my quick-responses, and my contribution to the conversation.  Don’t get me wrong, I am bound to still grumble and complain (sorry Shelly and best friends–you’ll still hear it).  But I am really going to put in the extra effort to see the positive in every situation–or at least as often as a possibly can.  And even the negativity creeps in, that’s okay.  I just will force myself to find the silver lining.  It won’t be easy.  I won’t always succeed.  But I am going to try.  My dad always told me to “be kind”.  So much so he got my sisters and I bracelets that year that have those words stamped on them.  It’s like his own mantra of shared wisdom.

I am okay knowing I won’t always agree with what is going on around me whether directly in my life, or out in the world we live in.  Here’s hoping my positive outlook can help spread joy, share love, and brighten lives.  Every little bit helps.  And I am convinced that trying to remain positive will improve me.

Love and light, –S

–Norman Vincent Peale