The Power to Choose Changes Everything

Each morning when I open my eyes I say to myself: I, not events, have the power to make me happy or unhappy today. I can choose which it shall be. Yesterday is dead, tomorrow hasn’t arrived yet. I have just one day, today, and I’m going to be happy in it.” — Groucho Marx 

What we say to ourselves on any given day makes a huge difference. We alone can decide if it will drudgery or delight.

Circumstances can be monumental and all consuming but even in the worst of times, we can choose to set our intention on feelings that will set us up for a “good” day. 

When you decide ahead of time to be grateful, calm, optimistic, and look for ways to encourage others, you will find what you’re looking for. I’m the first to say that it might take an act of faith to believe you can be different on the inside in the face of stormy weather. 

A man who endured a great deal of adversity yet remained hopeful and optimistic said this: 

Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way. — James 

Reflect for a minute 

• What can you say to yourself today that will tip the scales in favor of joy and gratitude? 
• How are you getting in the way of experiencing peace and happiness in your life?​