.jpg)
Christie Brinkley and her dog Maple Sugar
AP Photo/Richard Drew
On CNN tonight, Jack Cafferty asked a great question: “how can people stay positive with all of this depressing stuff going on?” On his website, he offered some suggestions from the experts, who were interviewed by U.S. News and World Report.
One suggestion is to be grateful for what we have, which is a key lesson of the spiritual Teachings. Rather than envying what other people have, or constantly wishing/praying for more than what we do have, we can cultivate contentment and gratitude for everything in our lives. A second suggestion is to focus on helping others, which is also consistent with the spiritual Teachings. Helping others brings a sense of peace and satisfaction. And as we practice compassion for others, we develop compassion for ourselves.
Cafferty also opened up the question to everyday Americans to see what makes us happy. Here is my opinion of the Top 10 responses that he received, in no particular order:
1. Fresh sheets on the bed
2. Family/grandchildren and friends
3. Being greeted by a dog upon returning home
4. Seeing animals playing
5. Taking a nap
6. Camping/being outside
7. Waking up with “my wits” about me
8. Comfort food
9. Faith
10. Love
Notice anything about the list? These are the same answers that people would give during a booming economy! Difficult times do not shift our values; they just remind us of our values. Even in tough times, we have things to be grateful for every day.
Over 42 million people witness Free Hugs Campaign
Go with the flow at free Family Fun Day by the ocean on May 2, 2009
Comments
As I often say, "Reality is what we make of it." In other words, our perceptions of reality tend to take on a reality of their own.
My brother and I like to kid around with this concept. Startled by a sudden scare, he'll claim something outrageous like "I thought it was the end of the world!" With the spookiest-looking face I can muster, I always hit him with the same response: "It was ... until you realized that it wasn't."
Sometimes, reality itself doesn't want to change until we are willing to change our perception of it. Because a strong economy relies upon consumer confidence and our confidence is often influenced by our perceptions, the dire economic situation that we're finding ourselves in might be an example of this very kind of “stubborn reality.”
Drdeb, your recommendation that we keep our ourselves focused on the positive aspects of our lives might be just what we, and perhaps even the economy, could use to get through these trying times.
- Korvayer
Thank you for your great comment, Korvayer, and I love the game you play with your brother!
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!