"Happiness
is in the heart, not in the circumstances."
~Anonymous
Good
morning!
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.
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.
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.