How the heck
is it possible to be content when we’re
surrounded by unjust situations and people, many of them beyond our
control? The world is in chaos (as usual).
Our kids don’t listen to us. Blue-collar and white-collar professionals don’t respect
our time or our agendas; they only care about money. The list could go on
forever. The trick is to be satisfied
despite the inevitable distraction of setbacks.
Let’s be
honest, some of us have more challenges than others. I’ve noticed that the most
content people are often those with the most trials. I am astonished when
such overcomers confide in me about domestic problems, medical catastrophes,
and job layoffs; yet, they seem to be smiling and full of gratitude. That’s
because they have made a conscious
decision to see the metaphorical glass as half full instead of half empty.
Why Should I be Grateful?
Here’s a
partial list of my current trials, and why I should still be grateful (Trials
will be preceded by “-“. Positive
aspects will begin with “+”):
-It’s been
snowing heavily here for about the past month.
+ I have always
had enough food, water, and electricity.
-A wound on
my back got infected. It hurts and itches.
+I have medical
and dental insurance.
-My chronic
medical condition still prevents me from working.
+I was led
to writing.
-I have sold
few copies of my book self-help book, Accept
No Trash Talk: Overcoming the Odds. (Hint! Hint!)
+In my mind,
I have received a Master’s Degree in Social Media and Self-Publishing—for a
minimal amount of money!
+I met my
unbelievably empowering and self-sacrificing mentor, Doris-Marie Heilmann of 111 Publishing. I cannot say enough
about this lady, but I’ll try: she has spent hours tutoring me in everything
related to blogging, self-publishing, and creating a social media presence.
+I came
across Eeva Lancaster, author
extraordinaire. She is an unbelievable support to self-published authors
through her Google+ community, Alliance
of Self-Published Authors. This is a ridiculously nurturing community where
members promote each others’ work through posts, tweets, and reviews.
-My clothes
washer has been broken for about five weeks.
+I am
learning more patience.
-My cars are
ancient.
+They still
work.
My Conclusion
The list of
what’s wrong in my life, perhaps yours as well, is endless. However, the catalogue
of blessings is also infinite.
Is your
glass half empty or half full?
Hey Traci, you sneaky woman, you. Thank you for the mention. :) I saw this post of yours on Google!
ReplyDeleteYou know, I read somewhere that If you're not sure if your glass is half empty or half full - just throw away the **** glass. :)
What matters is you're happy and moving on and that you're doing the best you can, where you are, with what you have.
All the best,
Eeva
Hi, Eeva
DeleteThanks for your response!
"Just throw the glass away." I like that! It's the first I've heard that saying. :)
You're right. We all have to do the best we can with what we have. No more, no less. In addition, those who can't do more shouldn't judge those who cannot.