Perception often defines our reality, and what we focus on matters just as much or
more than our circumstances – “what you see is what you get.” The person whom we
become is also strongly influenced by our perceptions of ourselves as well as what we
choose to think about. “As a man thinks in his heart so he is.” (Proverbs 23:7a)
Excessive worry, focusing on our fears, or a negative mind-set can undermine all the
good in our lives. We will eventually become depressed and obsessed with worries
and guilt if we constantly focus on problems, mistakes, and fears. If we count our
blessings, live in the present, and focus on the simple joys of each moment, we can
experience peace in the middle of the storm and rise above the inevitable difficulties
that we face in this life.
To a great extent we choose our own destiny. What we think about and how we view
life is critical.
I like to tell a story of two boys who go to visit their grandpa’s farm. One boy, Johnny,
is left in a barn filled with horse manure. The other boy, Tommy, is left in a room full of
toys. When granddad returns to check on them, Tommy is sitting in the middle of all
the toys pouting. “What’s wrong?” his grandfather asks. “Well, if I try to play with these
toys they will probably just break,” Tommy explains. But when grandpa gets back to
Johnny he finds him digging through the horse manure and having a great time.
Grandpa asks, “What’s going on?” and Johnny responds, “With all this horse poop
there’s got to be a pony in here somewhere!”
As this story illustrates, attitudes shape our experience. William James said: “The
most important factor is your belief.”
While we must be realistic and responsible, our attitude doesn’t need to be negative
even when we face setbacks or difficulties. A positive, hopeful, optimistic attitude can
make a huge difference in how we experience life. St. Paul encouraged us to focus on
the good: “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure,
whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy,
think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8)
Choose to focus on God and his goodness, asking Him for eyes to see the life you
were meant to live. No matter what is happening around you, with God’s help, you
can choose a good life!