In 1985, Max Lucado, one of my favorite authors, wrote a book titled On the Anvil. Here is a short excerpt from the chapter Today I Will Make A Difference.
Today I will make a difference. I will begin by controlling my thoughts. A person is the product of his thoughts. I want to be happy and hopeful. Therefore, I will have thoughts that are happy and hopeful. I refuse to be victimized by my circumstances. I will not let petty inconveniences such as stoplights, long lines, and traffic jams be my masters. I will avoid negativism and gossip. Optimism will be my companion, and victory will be my hallmark. Today I will make a difference.
I will be grateful for the twenty-four hours that are before me. Time is a precious commodity. I refuse to allow what little time I have to be contaminated by self-pity, anxiety, or boredom. I will face this day with the joy of a child and the courage of a giant. I will drink each minute as though it is my last. When tomorrow comes, today will be gone forever. While it is here, I will use it for loving and giving. Today I will make a difference.
Each day for me is a combination of getting our house ready to sell and checking in with my contacts and resources to find a job. I could spend time replaying all the scenarios that led up to my being dismissed, and mentally think of ways to correct misinformation, but God has given me a tremendous peace about our future. He will take care of every situation and He will bless Kathy and I for not looking backwards, but trusting Him forward. I will make a difference because each person I come in contact with will see a positive outlook and a loving and caring attitude. I have noticed that in the past two weeks, (I have not worked for two weeks), I am driving differently (more courteously), I have more time to help people, my blood pressure and pulse rate are down several points, I'm sleeping better and I have lost 10 pounds. I suppose I could be in a panic and want some kind of revenge for the predicament we're in, but I have chosen a much higher road. You can make a difference today. Let God help you, He will.
6 comments:
Good word, Dad!
Great post. You have chocen the right, higher road. Today, I will make a difference - very good.
Such well spoken words, a fantastic reminder. We are the only ones who can control our attitude and our "today". You have shown such wisdom and grace in this situation and I know the future will be your reward. 10lbs?, I am jealous
And this is why I love him!!!!!
Challenging word...thank you!
You have made a difference, so keep doing it! I often play your CD in my office at church while working. It's not only a joy because of your talent and worship, but because I know the person behind the music.
Post a Comment