Success in Balance

As I sat at home handing out Halloween candy I started noticing quite a few kids that wouldn’t say thank-you, I thought where is this world heading? Then there were those that would simply reach their hands in the bowl and grab a handful of candy. It seemed as if they thought it was their right to have it all. Why should they have to settle for just one when I had a whole bowl (I am not talking about 3-4 year olds). As I was feeling a bit down about today’s kids two young men (probably 12) came to the door. They said trick-or-treat. Nicely took the candy (I didn’t have to tell them to take just 1 or 2) then said thank you and a very sincere “Have a nice Halloween.” Wow, that took me by surprise. But how would I remember this Halloween? Would I allow those that “took” determine my thoughts or would I let those who offered “thanks”?

So my lesson from Halloween is it is all about the perspective you choose. That’s right it is your choice. Personally I am making a concerted effort to change my perspective, to change my view. Sure I can see things as bad and react accordingly, or I can see the good and react accordingly. On the start screen of my PDA I have put the words “Choose Grace, Not Un-Grace” and for me it means that I can choose how I react. Instead of selling people short, I am going to choose to see the best and believe the best.

So as the evening winds down I had a few more trick-or-treaters. This time it was two sweet little angels, wings and all. The nicely took their candy and as they started heading down the steps the little angel nicely said “is it ok if I have two?” Remembering that it is all about perspective, I said yes. And in return I received a sweet heartfelt thank you (you know when kids are sincere). It made all those other thoughts slip away.

So when you are faced with a choice, choose Grace and not Un-Grace. That choice will help you as you continue to strive for success in balance with the rest of your life.

If you have lessons that you would like to share, feel free to use our discussion area. Also, if you would like to contact me directly you can e-mail paul at successinbalance.com.