27 Elul 5775
by Scott Friedman
Some people believe our experiences shape our attitudes. I believe the opposite is true – attitudes shape our experiences. For example, even when two people see, hear, touch, taste, or smell something at the exact same moment, they are likely to have at least two opinions of what they experienced. The experience was identical, but the way the people interpreted the experience was different because their attitudes were different.
The following story, which I did not write, emphasizes this point. The story uses the same set of words no matter who reads it, but the meaning of the story changes depending on how it is read. As you reflect upon your past, and plan your future, consider the possibility your attitude shapes your experiences.
Reflections While Standing on My Hands
This year was the absolute worst year ever
And don’t try to convince me that
There’s something good in every day
Because, when you take a closer look,
This world is a pretty evil place.
Even if
Some goodness does shine through once in a while
Satisfaction and happiness don’t last.
And it’s not true that
It’s all in the mind and heart
Because
True happiness can be obtained
Only if one’s surroundings are good
It’s not true that goodness exists
I’m sure you can agree that
The reality
Creates
My attitude
It’s all beyond my control
And you’ll never in a million years hear me say that
This year was a good year
Now read the reflection for the bottom to the top
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