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"How do we stay positive in a negative world?" Stop seeing the world as negative.

The answer is so simple we fail to recognize it. We live in a very positive world. (I can already hear the buzz of questions and statements that try to tell me I am putting on blinders, sticking my head in the sand.) I stared in disbelief and made a few select comments the first time someone said this to me. I understand, because I was one of those who saw the war, the anger, the needless loss of lives, bullying at school and all that proved this was a negative place to live.

It takes time, patience and a whole lot of love, to accept the difference between what we think we see and what truly exists. Take time to reflect on the idea, that what we believe to be true, will continue to be true for us. If no one gave war consideration, who would there be to fight? If we saw the bully on the playground as a friend, and showed compassion for his pain, how long could he continue to harass us? If we recognized that the kids in gangs or adults who prefer vandalism and robbery are just living what they know, then would we not feel less compelled to hate them?

As my hatred disappears, then there is one less angry, hateful person in the world. I am contributing to a life of positive experience. As I continue to create gentleness, joy, and kindness, I notice more of those around me are doing the same.

We cannot change others. We cannot in the blink of an eye, or the wave of a wand, put an end to all that we perceive as negative, but we can begin to create a better place, by cleaning up our own back yard. One of my favorite sayings has always been, "Don't complain about the neighbor's yard, until every weed and piece of garbage has been picked up in your own." When I find myself in a place of resentment, I ask the question, "What reflection of my life am I seeing in this circumstance?" Ah yes, there are still weeds to pull, and garbage to clear away. In gratitude for the message, I am able to clear yet another mistake in thought and action from my life, making room for more delight, and experiences that are more constructive.

"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." The same is true of ugly, negative and contrary. The world will always be what you believe you see. Yet at its core, life is merely a playground where we can choose our friends, choose our experiences, and choose our beliefs. Change your question from, "How can I stay positive in a negative world?" to "How can I be a more positive model for others?"

Can you be more grateful for the beauty that exists? Can you look more closely at the situation, and forgive those who do not know anything other than conflict? Can you believe so strongly in peace, that your actions and words create that same desire in others? Can you love the bully, or the person who vandalized your property? Can you wish peace and joy to those with whom your country is at war? Can you see within each person you meet, that essence of perfection? Can you live each day in unconditional love, without judgment, resentment, or fear?

You cannot find peace, or happiness in a negative world, but you can see the world differently, thereby creating hopeful existence for all. By being a model for positive living, positive living will seek you out. When you live in the affirmative, express the affirmative, show appreciation and gratitude for all that is good, you will find you are living in a positive world after all. How wonderful it is to behold the smiles on the faces of strangers, the innocence of a newborn baby, the giggles of children playing, the beauty of the rising and setting of the sun. Splendor lies in every corner, at every turn in the road. See it, feel it, believe it.

Learn more about this author, Julie Melville.
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