Sunday, May 23, 2010

Contagious Attitudes


Something became evident to me during a lunch date with several girlfriends. Within minutes I became aware of something really important that I need to pay more attention to. I witnessed firsthand just how contagious our attitudes really are, and how they can greatly affect and influence those around us. Regardless if they are positive or negative, they are infectious.

Have you ever noticed when you are in a cheerful mood and watch a depressing movie, listen to a few sad songs, or spend time with a difficult person (you know the type) that you soon begin to feel your emotions shifting and you start to feel unhappy? Or those times when you’re feeling gloomy and you surround yourself with cheerful music, or positive, happy people, soon you are unexpectedly uplifted and your sad mood lightens. I saw this happen just by the few words that were spoken and how suddenly the frames of minds of many were changed.

This happens to me sometimes too; my good mood can get dragged down rather quickly especially after being around someone who is down and out and being pessimistic. This is why I don’t like to write entries that are unenthusiastic in my blog. I want this to be a place where I can be encouraging and positive, yet vent if I feel the urge to do so.

I asked myself today if I really listened and paid attention to the way I speak. Do you lift others up, or are you snappy with your words? I realize that I have been guilty of doing both at times.

What drove this point home to me was reading the words ---for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks - Matthew 12:34. What attitude do your words reflect? It’s true that what comes out of our mouths has to do with the condition of our hearts and I want others to know what is truly in my heart by my words and attitudes.

I am going to avoid the sad songs, depressing movies, and wasting my time with negative people. Instead, I am going to load my iPod with upbeat, praise and worship songs, surround myself with only positive people, and pay closer attention to my words.

In light of all the storms and trials that are happening in our family, after spending time this week with my funny son and inspiring husband who are always joking around how can I possibly be sad?

5 comments:

  1. Hi, I just "met" you on another blog. I read about your husband's transplant and pray that all is going well with him. It must be very hard to have one you love so much be so ill. Isn't it wonderful that God has taught the medical field so much?!!!!!

    Stop by for a visit if you like.

    Best,
    Bonnie

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hi Debi! I read this on my phone last night and thought it was so good! So glad to "meet" you. :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. I agree that when I surround myself with upbeat and positive people my mood is much better than being around pessimists.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Debi,
    Thanks for your encouragement.
    I know that this is a one way street. And I do my best to keep positive and focused.
    I was very pleased to read Eric's first post after transplant. My eyes watered and my wife and I both gulped.
    I often read certain post to her and even though I don't know you, it is very easy to share an affinity and have empathy for others going through similar situations or transplant.
    My best to you and Eric,

    Beaux

    ReplyDelete