Positive by Choice.

 

The world's watching Ukraine: a young woman documents her life while living in a bomb shelter, expressing unimaginable circumstances with dark humor. A solder breaks out his moves while on patrol. And we ask, how can he dance while fighting for his country? Then the harder question, what would any of us do if in their situation? 

I have never faced war, as the brave citizens of Ukraine are now, but I admire their spirit. Hopeful. Brave. Looking forward to victory with nothing but positivity. And nobody knows better than me that positivity saves lives. After all, when one is at their lowest--and war is damn low--what are the options, does one fall to despair or grasp on to hope? And isn't that exactly what the Ukrainian people have shown us, a level of bravery while waving the biggest banner of hope the world has ever seen?

I argue; if those in Ukraine can shed such hope while suffering, then what excuse do the rest of us have?

I understand, it's hard to smile when one's world is falling apart--I recently lost my dear mother, so I get it. But I tell you the truth, my journey through the valley was better managed with hope and faith. Faith in my belief as to where my mother will reside after passing--i.e, Heaven. And hope in that she will be with me in some small way, still watching over her family.

So, yes, it's no surprise (to me) that hope prevails at all times--even in war! 

For the past ten years, I've taken on the title of Mr. Positive. And I take that responsibly seriously, refusing to allow the angry giant that once controlled my life any leverage. After all, I had lived with Beelzebub (my name for that negative self) for far too long. So, yes, I choose to banish him to the darkness.  And how many others need to do the same? 

So how do we stay positive when all is falling apart around us? 

Did we open our eyes this morning? If so, is that not a wonderful gift? Did we turn on the coffee machine and enjoy a cup of delicious black gold? Did we kiss our kids or partner, maybe even our fur babies, on the way out of the house?  Though simple, all are beautiful, wonderful things to be happy about and thankful for. And so, I say, we should celebrate even the smallest of joy and blessing in our lives!

Staying grateful overshadows the negative.

Yes, it's easier to concentrate on the negative. It's even easy to allow yourself to get upset and stress over everything or even nothing at all. After all, stress and obstacles are a part of all our daily lives. We cannot avoid it, but rather we choose to either concentrate more on the good then the bad. 

So, yes, we're back to the art of choice! Choosing to be positive!

I often talk about having a mirror moment. Where each morning, you talk it out, deciding what your day will be, never leaving it to chance. For each day should be treated as a precious gift. And yes, you can have a say in it. When the reflection of that handsome man or beautiful lady is looking back at you, think about the good in your life. Reminisce on those fun moments shared with family and friends. Think about how happy the family dog is when he sees you, think about your kitty cat when she/he snuggles beside you in bed. 

Tell yourself this is going to be a good day and we’re going to be happy and positive. Pop in that CD that makes you want to dance on the way to work, and before you leave, kiss the dog and kids. Do what makes you happy. If politics upset you, turn off the news. If your job upsets you, leave it at the office and concentrate on things that bring you joy and peace.

I once lived in a horrible place, friend, and it sure wasn't fun. It almost killed me. And I won't ever let that happen again. I choose Mr. Positive. But, hey, if none of my above suggestions help and your still not in a positive place, stop on over to my FB page. It's a self-built Happy Place with lots of fun and sunshine.

Come and catch some rays..... PEACE
Dan