Monty Python

Some of you may be familiar with the name, and the song, ‘Always Look on the Bright Side of Life’.

My brother passed away some years ago and before he died, he requested that song to be played at his funeral. I mention that because my dear brother had a negative view on life and even from his schooldays, where he’d been bullied, he would dwell on that mindset. I would ring him from time to time and make the mistake of asking how he was. The reply always had a negative response.

Misfortune can beset each and every one of us and my belief is that it’s not what happens to us, but how we handle it that’s important. Our mental attitude towards setbacks is vitally important and can determine whether we successfully move forward or are stymied by our thinking pattern. Defeat comes in many forms, and success is not achieved by dismissing every misfortune. However, considering what happens is the first step in knowing how to handle the occurrence. None of us is immune to suffering or unhappiness from time to time: it’s in our nature. Then again, looking on the bright side is to be encouraged I believe. In the case of my brother’s seemingly ironic request, it certainly brought a smile to my face and other people who knew him.

Being positive can be a hurdle to overcome from time to time and yet it far outweighs the inclination to dwell on the inescapable sad thought that affect each and every one of us as time goes by.

In today’s changing world it might appear to many of us that, ’Fings Ain’t Wot They Used To Be,’ as Max Bygraves sang many years ago. In fact the changes are constant and the older we get the more likely we are to realise that. However, the point I’m attempting to get across is that acceptance of change can help us to deal with it rather than fighting against unpopular circumstances.

Realisation then that change is constant might help each of us to deal with it in a positive light. I’m doing the best I can with current circumstances. My homespun philosophy comes from exposure to the likes of Napoleon Hill over the years. Smiling is an aid in that respect and a mirror is a good way to practice the art of feeling better… give it a go if you’re not accustomed to it!

A positive outlook is not diminished by optimism, but rather heightened and beneficial to us all, I believe. Our thinking happens whether we like it or not, so an awareness of what’s going on in that brain of ours, can be affected by due consideration to our definiteness of purpose. Thinking is a habit over which we do have some control and directing our thoughts in a positive direction is my recommendation for a happier outcome to this journey through life on which we find ourselves.

Have a great day!

Kind regards, John.