Tell A New Story

 

My wife is a very wise woman. She has her priorities in order. She has a very clear picture of who she is, and what is important to her. Of the many, many things I have learned from her in the last twenty-five years, two things are particularly valuable.

 

The first concept is to "protect the quality of your life." This is a more complex perception then it sounds. It has very little to do with material things. It has more to do with avoiding negative thoughts and negative people. In these troubled times, we are bombarded with difficult challenges — global warming, faltering economies, and divisive opinions on almost every social issue.

 

In the confusion and chaos of a rapidly changing world, it is difficult to avoid negative and pessimistic attitudes. One of the most pernicious elements is criticism.

 

In my experience, praise and approval seem to roll off like the proverbial water from the proverbial duck; but, personal critical comments have a sting that never goes away. In the course of a lifetime, we begin to recognize patterns, even among friends and relatives, who either unconsciously or deliberately poor toxic fluids on us. When it becomes apparent that these behaviors are not going to change, we must tell ourselves and others a "new story."

 

Instead of telling ourselves that such negative elements are part of life, we must tell ourselves to look for healthier alternatives. This may involve avoiding corrosive behaviors or "toxic" people. These are not easy choices. By telling a "new story" about who we are and what we choose, we take responsibility for our own well being, instead of blaming others or considering ourselves as "victims." Instead of dragging disappointments and resentments forward, we can tell a "new story" and protect the quality of our lives.