Choices

We have choices to lean on God to be able to move forward. I have seen that once we realize that we are in a situation where we have a choice, we could either wallow in self-pity, or we could make the most of the time with that situation.  We do have a choice, and if we think positively, our lives will have so much more meaning because we make the best of what we have. Forgiving those who have hurt us also gives us peace.

I feel that many times we do not see God working even when He is right there by us. I have a client who is very negative, and she keeps saying that she does not feel God’s presence and she does not hear Him.  However, all she does is complain about her own negative thoughts. She refuses to do her part and wants everyone else to fix her, but she also refuses medication. I feel that if we walk around being negative and others feed from that negativity, it makes the world an awful place, we must spread positive vibes to reap positivity around us. For us to spread positivity, we need to focus on the positive things around us. I have no doubt that if we look hard enough, we can find things to be grateful and thankful for.  It may not always be easy, but we can do it. In every situation, God has seen our efforts and our part, so God will bless our efforts and I pray that the situation changes.

The scripture that comes to mind as I think of being positive is, Colossians 3:15, which says, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” (NIV). I believe that if we practice being thankful, then we will also be more positive and grateful.

— Dr. Norma S. Shearin, Ph. D., L.M.H.C.