Attitudes influence how we act and feel. Optimists have a positive expectancy that helps them achieve their goals. Theirs is a can-do attitude. They take action, which is empowering. Pessimists take a passive attitude. They focus on what they can’t do. As a result, pessimists often become victims of a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Years ago, when reading about the release from imprisonment of newsman Terry Anderson, I was struck with how well he managed to cope with the isolation and constant threats of his captivity. He mentioned his faith, memories of his family, home and his friends. Then, he pulled out a small, well-worn slip of paper that he had managed to keep with him throughout the ordeal. On it was a poem by an anonymous writer which I hold constantly in my heart.
The words speak to the limitless potential to find hope and success in every situation by remaining positive and in the moment. I gladly share it with you …
Outside my window, a new day I see
And only I can determine what kind of day it will be.
It can be busy and sunny, laughing and gay, or boring and cold, unhappy and grey.
My own state of mind is the determining key, for I am the person I let myself be.
I can be thoughtful and do all that I can to help, or be selfish and think just of myself.
I can enjoy what I do and make it seem fun, or gripe and complain and make it hard on someone.
I can be patient with those who may not understand, or belittle and hurt them as much as I can.
But I have faith in myself, and believe what I say, and I personally intend to make the best of each day
Attitude is very much like a pair of eyeglasses. It is the lens through which we view the world. Positive-minded people see the opportunity in every challenge, while pessimists see the challenges in every opportunity. Make today great!
By Tammy Springer March 22, 2018
Thank you immensely Barb
Poem very thought provoking at this time in my life…I will open the windows of my eyes each morning and be grateful I am able to embrace a new sunshine filled day in celebration of bring free with choices to do so…Thank you for all your gifts you share with all of us…blessings Tammy
By Tammy Walker February 7, 2018
Just what I needed!
We’ve been having A Lot of issues at our meetings lately. We are in central Florida so this time of year we have A Lot of snowbirds along with our members. We’ve been meeting at the clubhouses of “gated communities” for several years now. The time of year we have almost doubled the number of people, the clubhouse doubles their community activities leaving us no privacy and being too noisy. It’s time for a “change” to get our meetings brought to a Public place. We’ve found an amazing opportunity to have them at the local Library! How awesome but, A lot of people do NOT like change. I saw this post, printed it out and will be bringing it with me to tomorrow’s meeting. Thank you Barb for sharing this very inspirational message!
By Cathy February 6, 2018
I love the poem. My son is in prison so it kinda gave me an insight on how he thinks and how he feels day to day. He has been in 1 year so far and I have seen the positive and I have seen the other side. I can’t imagine but this let me imagine. Thank you
By Alice Phillips February 5, 2018
Thank you so much for your uplifting post today. I printed off the poem and am putting it in my TOPS notebook for future reference. I also intend to slip a copy of it inside my granddaughter’s graduation card. I’m new to TOPS and really look forward to all your future posts.
By Stephanie spencer February 5, 2018
Thank you so much for that poem. I was in need of a new motivation today. It made me see me in a new light!
By Barb Cady February 5, 2018
I keep a copy of the poem tucked in my billfold to read whenever I need to recenter myself!
By Gina brueske February 5, 2018
Awesome message. Need this every day of ones life. Thanks so much for sharing. Your day proceeds the same way your mouth is turned. One of my favorite sayings