Let me begin with a disclaimer: The topic of today's post is not something that has never occurred to me before, nor is it going to be new learning for anyone reading. Much like the concepts of the direction of the toilet flush or how my voice travels from my face to a phone thousands of miles (or even just one mile) away, it is one of those confounding topics that escapes our concrete thinking. The question I plan to pose in just a few lines is seemingly inane, but don't be fooled. It lingers dangerously on the periphery of our mind's conscious thoughts. Dangerous to those of us prone to its presence, yet unaware of how it affects us on a daily basis until it might be too late. Not too late to retreat because we should NEVER RETREAT; but too late to respond with optimism and love. And so, here is the question that is plaguing my mind today:
Why, when there is so much in this beautiful life and world for which to be grateful, are there folks who are hell-bent on being negative and spreading pessimism?
This week I had the honor of attending my son's college orientation. Instead of blogging about the irony of the chaos and craziness of my life these past few days, chaos which happened to be plopped dead center between two sessions I am presenting on Finding Balance and Peace in Real Life, I need to implore all readers to seriously consider the question above with me. It is an important question for anyone who believes any of the following:
Kindness Matters
The Power of Positivity
Positive Culture Makes a Difference
Choose Kind
Love Conquers All
Life is So Good
That list can go on, in fact, comment here, on Twitter, on Facebook all that you can with additional phrases of positivity, because the comments that surrounded me this week are a testament to the fact that many folks really just don't get it. But even more importantly than putting it out on all those social media avenues, where quite frankly the folks most in need of the message are likely not hanging out with us, we need to LIVE IT OUT LOUD!!! Everywhere you go, spread that beautiful positive vibe that makes you stand out. Share your smile with the crabster in line. Give a positive comment, regardless of the outcome, to the cashier, waitress or (on those days when it really gets to you) the bartender. Let yourself be vulnerable enough to be brave enough to shout to the world, "This life is awesome, and if you don't believe me, let's figure out what we can do to change your situation or change your mind!"
I promised myself that I would not go into detail as to the origins of this post. Throughout the past week, there were many factors bringing this question to the forefront of my mind. One major factor occurred in the auditorium of my son's college as I saw a room full of beautiful teenagers, all silently screaming "I AM FULL OF AWESOME POTENTIAL!!!". Were there kids who were challenges to their parents? You bet! Were there teens who pushed limits? Absolutely! Were there some kids who are going to make bad choices? No doubt! The room was bustling with the energy of teens who are on the road to adulthood and it was absolutely, undeniably, an energy that this world needs! Maybe I'm the nut, but after hearing what some of the parents said earlier about their children, I didn't want to leave the auditorium. But you can bet those folks were doused in my positive vibe. I didn't retreat...NEVER RETREAT! I responded with resounding optimism, love and admiration for all that is teen-age-hood and for the parents who are living it. Will they avoid me in the future? quite possibly. But somewhere in their minds perhaps there will be a little ringing of the bell of positivity and complete fascination about the beauty of this world, awe in the potential of all children and excitement for all that life has to offer if only we are open to receiving.
