“Happiness is in the heart, not in the circumstances.”
~Anonymous
The vision of the happy family eating homemade meals every night, having family time once a week, and anticipating the annual family vacation is a great one. But for the most part, it’s just that: a
vision. We are much more likely to go through “spurts” where we feel we are pulling together as a family, and go through times where it seems no matter what we try, we’re falling apart.
vision. We are much more likely to go through “spurts” where we feel we are pulling together as a family, and go through times where it seems no matter what we try, we’re falling apart.
Occasionally, our vacations will be wonderful. Other times they’ll be filled with sick kids, sunburn, or lost luggage. Sometimes we will all sit down to eat together. Other times there is bound to be a last-minute meeting, an after school sport, or, if we do all sit down-a burnt dinner because the chef is in shock at everyone’s arrival.
But what makes the difference between the good trips and the bad? Take, for example, two families who have excitedly planned a picnic. The day for the picnic arrives-and storms arrive with it.
There is no hope of the outdoor jaunt that the family craved. Why does one family complain about the weather, mope and pout, while another family throws the picnic blanket down on the living room
floor, grabs the snacks and a board game and enjoys a day “in”? It all ties back to priorities and attitude. If your priority is truly your family, sure it will be a disappointment that it’s raining, but you can focus on the fact you still have your family together, and there are plenty of other ways to spend your time. If your focus is elsewhere, you are likely to mope, since the picnic probably became a vehicle for “using up the time,” because you felt it necessary.
There is no hope of the outdoor jaunt that the family craved. Why does one family complain about the weather, mope and pout, while another family throws the picnic blanket down on the living room
floor, grabs the snacks and a board game and enjoys a day “in”? It all ties back to priorities and attitude. If your priority is truly your family, sure it will be a disappointment that it’s raining, but you can focus on the fact you still have your family together, and there are plenty of other ways to spend your time. If your focus is elsewhere, you are likely to mope, since the picnic probably became a vehicle for “using up the time,” because you felt it necessary.
Your Turn: When plans change and good intentions go awry, don’t give up. Step back and look for ideas to make the most of what you have in the here and now.
Today’s Affirmation: I promote happiness and togetherness.
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And as always, don’t forget to start your day with a heartfelt: “Something great is going to happen today… I can’t wait to see what it is!”
And when ending your day ask yourself:
“What is one more thing I can do to make today matter?”