Choosing our attitude

Snowflakes in motion

My friend, Marge, is adapting fairly well to her new singlehood. Some days are better than others.

Recently she was expecting some guests when a snowfall complicated her plans. The sidewalk and driveway needed shoveling. With a sigh she put on her winter clothes and, shovel in hand, faced what must be done.

Then Marge remembered a Bible verse that had grabbed her attention earlier that day: "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness:" (Psalms 100:1,2)

She realized that a sigh of resignation wasn't a particularly joyous noise. Furthermore she was honoring and serving God by making it safe for her guests to come to her house, so she might as well be cheerful about it.

So Marge changed her attitude to one of gratitude that she could shovel the snow! Somehow she completed the job with less effort than she had expected. And she felt invigorated.

Sometimes we don't realize we have the ability to choose to be happy, to change our attitude, to lighten and brighten our own world, and that of everyone around us. This recognition can be especially clear when our motive is to help others.