Did You Catch My Attitude?

It was Abraham Lincoln who once said, "Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." That is an interesting statement, particularly since it comes from a man who spent most of his presidency trying to bring peace to a nation engulfted in a great Civil War. And yet, despite the daily pressures of wartime leadership, Lincoln saw a significant truth that is still relevant for us today: People can choose the attitude they will bring to each day.

I realize, of course, that this is not always easy. We all face difficult situations from time to time that can overwhelm us and leave us feeling somewhat discouraged. Indeed, Jesus Himself clearly said, "In this world you will have trouble" (Jn. 16:33). But, if Lincoln was right, we don't have to stay in an attitude of discouragement or disappointment. We can choose to live above our problems and difficulties by choosing an attitude that is optimistic, joy-filled, and a blessing to others. It is important for us to know this, for attitudes are contagious. People will "catch" the attitude you possess - whether positive or negative.