I have had to changed my outlook on life over the past couple of years.  Perception is everything.  It’s like changing your old outdated glasses for the newest trendy style that goes with everything you own.  I really noticed how I starting shining my light differently to the world when people started telling me.  I attended a potluck before just Christmas.  Someone I don’t really interact with on a regular basis jump into my conversation and said to me, “Oh Linda!  You are just too positive.”  I laughed it off and continued chatting.  I have been also told I’m a firecracker and I don’t remember you being this chirpy.  These comments are all confirmations I made the right choice to be happy.

I have learned to be grateful for absolutely everything that is in my life.  It really doesn’t matter what obstacles you are currently dealing with.  You have to know it will pass.  There is a lesson for you to learn and grow from it.  I think life lessons are so much harder than any academic classes.  If you think that you have nothing to be thankful I challenge you to do this exercise.  Start a Joy Journal for 60 days. Write in a notebook everyday for the next 60 days what brought you joy each day.  Your entry doesn’t have to be long.  Just a few words.  It could be a picture of a smiley face because a stranger gave you one that day or that you didn’t receive any bills in the mail or a coworker brought you a coffee that you didn’t expect.  I started doing this exercise back in September and was amazed how much goodness touches me everyday.  It’s truly a celebration of happiness!!