“You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” Marcus Aurelius
There are some weeks that these Gratitude Thoughts flow effortlessly from the keyboard onto the page – and other weeks that they don’t. The Marcus Aurelius quote above is just as much a reminder to me that it’s in how we look at our various life situations that make all the difference.
While giving a keynote speech to the Farm Bureau, I learned about one of their former agents, Suzette Livingston, who was diagnosed with a rare form of ALS, called PLS, in August. Her physical decline has been rapid, but her loving spirit and positive attitude is an inspiration to anyone who knows her. (You can read her story here: http://sundancetimes.com/no-regrets/)
Not only has she “accepted the things she cannot change,” she is looking to make other people’s lives better through her example. She uses herself as an example of getting your financial house in order so you can prepare for the unexpected – which, thankfully, she is all set. Because of her preplanning, she does not want or need to be the “recipient of a fundraiser.” She encourages others to follow her example.
Suzette is also helping in the creation of a balancing device to benefit others in her condition so they can continue to walk as long as possible. She created a video to share her story, and you can feel the love and gratitude that she has in her heart.
We can’t always control what happens to us, but we certainly can take charge of our attitudes about those events.
Have fun,
Lisa
