Consumed by Anger and Bitterness

Have you ever noticed how many people around you look truly miserable? I jog around a lake near my apartment, and one day when I was walking back home, I saw one of my friends that lives nearby. She told me that there's a wooded trail where she likes to walk because she doesn't like the lake. When I asked her why, she said that the people at the lake were mean. There are lots of people that walk, jog, and bike around the lake. For me it's a relaxing experience that can sometimes help me clear my head. I would think that others would feel the same way, but most of the people I see during the time that I'm walking or jogging look pretty grim. You can almost feel the bitterness emanating from them.

I know that life is damn hard and that it can thrown many a curveball, but it would be easier to deal with those curveballs if one could just let go of the anger and the bitterness. Got a co-worker that you absolutely can't stand? Associate with them as little as possible. If you have to work with them on a project, try your best to maintain a professional demeanor. Got a friend who's either a user or a liar? Once again, limit your time with them. Also, branch out to find new friends and new activities. Have a child, old or young, that continually makes mistakes or gets into trouble? With the older kids, you may have to wash your hands of the situation and let them try to make it on their own. Take comfort in the fact that you raised them the best that you could and that everything works out the way it's supposed to. As for younger kids, you still have a chance to try to steer them in the right direction. If what you're doing isn't working, then try a new approach. Also, remember that mistakes are also learning experiences.

Those are just a few examples of the things in life that can make us feel miserable. If you are dealing with something that's not on this list, just remember that only you can make you happy. You know what it is that you want and need. Lots of times fear holds us back from reaching toward our goals. Rarely do things ever fall into place the first time out of the box, so don't be discouraged. It may take one more attempt or it make take 100 more attempts. No matter how long it takes, persistence does pay off.