When he was just a 2 year old baby, a friend got to know that her only son was a special child. Though deep down she knew that something was not right with the baby but nothing can prepare you for the devastation and shock when your worst fears are confirmed. To say that she was heartbroken, would have been an understatement! She was back to her normal self pretty soon. Her son is the apple of her eyes and despite all the hard-work, stress and pain of bringing up a child with autism, she is always smiling. Am yet to come across somebody who is so positive despite the challenges that life has thrown her way.
What makes her different?
Well, it’s her perspective. I remember reading a proverb which says, ‘Instead of complaining that the rose bush is full of thorns, be happy that the thorn bush has roses!’. My friend chose to see the roses. How we approach life is our choice. Our thoughts and view define whether an experience or a situation is good or bad. And this definition defines our response. Like they say, no matter how bad things are, one can always make things worse with the way he views it.
So, do the adverse situations make you better or bitter?
18 Responses
Very well said….
On the topic of changing our perspective towards life, I remember the words of Fredriek Langbridge…”Two men look through the same bars: One sees the mud and one the stars.”
I so agree with the quote you shared, Sheela. It’s all about our perspective!
Wonderfully said Shilpa! Life has a lot to offer and what makes the difference is what we choose to see. We should train our eye and mind to look at things from a positive point of view, and then we’ll see the difference 🙂
Well said, Ashwini. Like they say, life is not what happens to us; it is what we perceive has happened to us!! 🙂
A great thought-To remember the thorn bush has roses!! You bring such positivity in your posts, Shilpa. Loved it!
Thanks Shalini! Glad you enjoy reading this series 🙂
It is not always that “our thoughts and view define whether an experience or a situation is good or bad.” Some situations are bad, irrespective of our thoughts and view.
However, I completely agree that “no matter how bad things are, one can only make things worse with the way he or she views it.
Oh, situations can be bad, but it’s about seeing something good in that bad situation too. 🙂
Agree 100%. Life is beautiful and its how we see it, experience it – makes it all the more worth while. 🙂
Spot on! 🙂
That’s a wonderfully positive outlook, Shilpa. I wish more people shared this trait.
I love the quote, the key point being ‘I choose.’
Thanks for sharing!
Yes, if more people look at positivity in adversity, our world would be more beautiful and happy! Thanks Monica 🙂
Very well said. Something similar to looking at a glass that is half full vs a glass that is half empty.
Exactly! It’s all about perspective, that is how you look at things… half full or half empty!!
I am sometimes thankful for adverse situation for that’s when I get a chance to improve myself. To look at the world with different perspective. Kudos to your friend for being so strong and supportive.
Agree, tough times do give us a lot to learn and ponder on and in turn help us grow, Oh yes, salute to her indomitable spirit!
Very inspiring post. Imagine how the mother withstood the calamity so courageously.
Thanks Ma’am. Yes, she is a very strong lady.