Life Notes: Look For the Brighter Side
by Rick Sutton

Have you ever been around people that are constantly negative about everything? I think we all have. If you are like me, you don’t like to spend too much time with them. Some people fail to look for the positive and only dwell on the negative.

I believe we should all strive to be positive. We should not only be positive, but we should also be thankful. People who look for the “brighter side” seem to be happier. People who are thankful seem to receive even more blessings.

First of all, if you are born in America you should be thankful. Consider what we have in America that people born in other countries don’t have. Things like freedom, standard of living, good climate, and growing up with Christian ideals are overlooked. There is a reason why so many people try to immigrate to America. I feel quite sure that 99% of the people in this world would love to trade places with you.

I also believe we are blessed to live in north Louisiana. I spent twenty years in the military and lived in most parts of the U. S. and some foreign countries. People who live in the “Bible Belt”, or southern states, seem to be more relaxed and comfortable with life.

I am thankful that I grew up in a community where most people not only believe there is a God but also worship God. The Ten Commandments seem to be the standard by which our way of life is founded. I was totally shocked when I got in the military and some people openly stated that they did not believe in God.

When I retired from the military I had to decide where I wanted to live. I loved the rolling hills of north Louisiana and the decision was an easy one. I had attended Louisiana Tech and loved both Ruston and Tech. I still believe Ruston (and surrounding areas) is the best place in Louisiana to live. The fact that we have two universities not only provides jobs, but a better educated community.

I am also blessed to be part of the Methodist Children’s Home. I am strongly committed to the mission of MCH. There is no better feeling than to realize you have helped a young person who might otherwise be lost. I am not only referring to personal loss but also a loss for the community and state. Young people without proper guidance or assistance oftentimes end up in the welfare system or incarcerated.

I don’t believe God intended for people to constantly have a negative attitude. We should all try to make life more enjoyable for each other. This includes being positive and upbeat in our daily lives. Also, take the time to tell God you are thankful for the blessings he has bestowed upon you. When you do this you will find that you are happier and so is the community.
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The Life Notes articles are written by staff of Louisiana Methodist Children’s Home and are published in The Ruston Daily Leader.