Attitude adjustment...

Time for an attitude adjustment. There are all sorts of difficulties in my life right now but I'm going to try to see the blessings/positive outcomes/opportunities in them. I read recently about five questions you should ask yourself when dealing with difficult situations/challenges: 1) What can I learn from this; 2) How can this strengthen me; 3) How can I use this to my advantage; 4) How can I use this to help others; 5) What would make this a worthwhile experience (http://advancedlifeskills.com/blog/do-you-see-blessings-in-challenges/). I am not very good at this but I'm going to actively work on it.

One thing suggested by the author of this article is to focus on the blessings in your day because "Whatever we focus on the most expands."  He suggests taking time each day to write out all the blessings in the day and a couple of challenges but to focus on value of each challenge.  I could do this on paper but this seemed easier.

Blessings                                                                                              
It was a beautiful day.
I had a great training session today about turning conflict into opportunity, lots of good tools there
I had good conversations and interactions with my coworkers today
I got the paperwork I needed to finish the FEMA paperwork
My house is comfortable and the hot tub is wonderful.
I have a wonderful SIL who was willing to postpone finishing her dinner prep when she heard why I wanted to talk.
I have good friends who check on me and offer support
I have food to eat and no experience with real hunger
I have loving and supportive family
My SIL and brother loved the anniversary card I made.
My kitties were happy to see me and we all enjoyed lap time.


Challenges
Grandpa is in the hospital with pneumonia and it doesn't look like he's likely to recover- but he has had a good life and at 94 he has stopped being cognizant of much.  This could be a great relief for him and I believe there is something better after this life.  It's also a good reminder that life is short- really, 94 doesn't seem that old when you reach middle age.
I got the bill for the surveying.  It's under budget but still more than I had.  However, I shouldn't have to do it ever again and hopefully it will have a positive effect on my insurance.