We so often underestimate our power to shape the situations in our life into a vibrant, creative, positive
experience. We feel we are victims of circumstances and can do nothing. We curl up in our little ball of
day-to-day sameness. We become mired in the muck of self-pity, blame, and stagnation. We are just too tired
to do anything. While–as the Serenity Prayer states–the acceptance of things we cannot change is wise, the
way we react to those things is within our power. When we fully realize and practice this self-choice in our
reactions to circumstances, we then truly begin living.
Saying this is one thing–putting it into practice is yet another. Is it as simple as throwing a mental switch and
having everything we encounter in our lives become positive? Ultimately the answer is yes, but getting to the
switch can be difficult. Surrounding yourself with positive, supportive people is a first step. Finding examples
of people who have overcome unbelievable odds to achieve success or deal with a crisis is another. Just
acknowledging that it is possible is a big step. Start with a some little thing that you normally would react to in
a negative way. Instead of looking at the negative, look for the positive. Instead of saying things that support
the dark side of the event, make statements that affirm your reactions in a strong, positive way.
We have two roads that we can take in our reaction to things we encounter in life. We can take the well-traveled
road of blame, depression, anxiety, self-pity, fear, stagnation; or we can take the “road less traveled” and
literally straighten up (did you ever notice how positive people appear taller, with their head held high) and meet
the challenge with the knowledge that we are in control of our actions and reactions.
What road will you take? How you react is your choice. No person can take that away from you.
Blessings and love,
Allen Schmeltz
