Thousands upon thousands of people can sink in quick sand without even knowing it. Each day, with normal stressors of life, we can all become mired in “poor me” thoughts that bring us to despair. Yet, normal stress of everyday living soon pales when we cast our eyes onto the plight of those around us.

When our small issues are compared to what others have to endure, we are vividly reminded that each day is a gift. Each day can be filled with wallowing in self-pity, or be filled with little joys that can make our day worthwhile. These little joys are there for us to embrace, or to be ignored. We all have a choice – well, some of us.

Recently, I was shocked to learn that a friend had just been admitted to hospital with a brain aneurism. It didn’t look good. Needless to say, the family rallied to her side, but all they could do was wait for hospital staff to evaluate her prognosis and take whatever medical action they could to save her life. Within a heartbeat, my friend’s life changed. There was no prior sign of medical concerns in my friend’s life. There were plans for a well-deserved family vacation for the following week. Everything seemed to point to a life full of excitement and future plans.

Ask yourself whether you are enjoying your day, enjoying a laugh with friends or co-workers, appreciating the welcoming call of a bird, or the buzz of a bumble bee as it makes it’s rounds to flowered shrubs. Each day brings the opportunity to experience all the little things that can become big things that become a valued day. Or, you can approach each day as if you’re owed more, should have more, or should be allowed more. If this “poor me” attitude follows you everywhere, goes with you to work, accompanies you to the family table, or rides on your shoulder through rush hour traffic, you are building a life on quick sand.

Pessimistic I’m not, realistic I am. Each day is a gift – it’s up to you to decide how you’ll use it. To smile, to say thank you, to laugh, to experience the small joys of life are all within your control. Be thankful that you have the chance to make each day filled with warmth and appreciation for it could all change in a heartbeat.

Byron Pulsifer
http://www.stresslesscountry.com