“The greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our dispositions, and not on our circumstances. We carry the seeds of one or the other about with us in our minds wherever we go.” Martha Washington

Martha surely knew a thing or two about challenging circumstances. She accompanied and supported George, her husband and besieged commander of America’s Revolutionary troops, through some of his most trying times. And there is ample evidence that Martha’s cheerful, hopeful attitude buoyed up not only George, but his troops as well. She worked tirelessly to comfort and encourage them all.

Our takeaway? Our mindset, not our circumstances, determines whether we choose happiness or hardship as our touchstone.

Just the other day, my sister Steph and I were visiting a street vendor to see if he had an item we wanted to purchase. It was a brisk, winter’s day, but Robert was smiling and cheerful. He didn’t have what we needed, but promised to restock his inventory for us in a week or so.

As we chatted a bit, he said, “Do you want to know the magic word that determines everything? Whether you’re happy or sad? Whether you feel rich or poor? Whether you’re angry or in a good mood? Shall I tell you what the magic word is?”

Of course, Steph and I said, “Yes, tell us!” He smiled and said, “The magic word is “Attitude.”

As we walked away, I thought of Robert’s sunshiny, uplifting smile as he stood behind a table with his wares carefully arrayed for passersby. And I realized that he makes his own sunshine. How marvelous!

So let’s give ourselves an attitude check. How are we doing today?

If writing seems to be a struggle, do we get frustrated or fascinated?

If we get a rejection, do we feel crushed or challenged?

If we feel low, do we sink lower or give ourselves a pep talk?

Zig Ziglar once said, “Your attitude not your aptitude determines your altitude.” Something to ponder and apply as we all write on!

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