224 – August 12
“Being sober doesn’t mean you won’t have problems. But the quality of your problems will improve.”—Overheard at an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting
Making more money doesn’t mean you won’t have problems, either. Sometimes the people in my workshops with the most money have the most problems. But they are high class, quality problems!
I’m reminded of an old story about some villagers who were complaining to God about their problems. Every day, they moaned and groaned, until finally, God called them all together for a meeting in the town square. In the center of the square was a huge oak tree. God told everyone to take their collection of troubles and hang them on the tree. After everyone had done so, He said, “Now walk around the tree, look over all the troubles, and take down the ones you’d rather have.” After the villagers examined all the problems hanging on the tree, each one took back his own set of problems and returned home without complaining again.
We are afraid to risk the unknown, and so we put up with the problems we’ve got. I say upgrade your problems and upgrade your life! And if you find yourself complaining, stop and look at the troubles other people have. Then you might want to thank God for your high class, quality problems.
Today’s Affirmation:
“As I generate my earthly fortune, I am reminded of my heavenly connection, which is the source of my true wealth.” (Contributed by Shelley Ackerman, in New Woman Magazine)
With a dash of perspective, here are some really fine problems:
“Oh, darn, I have to get new tires on my Lexus SC430.”
“My book only made it to number two on the New York Times Bestseller List.”
“I can’t decide whether to go to the Prom with David or Jerry.”
“The electric bill was higher this month.”
“The bakery was out of my favorite cranberry pecan scones.”
What can you add to this list?
