Attitude

"There is little difference in people, but that little difference makes a big difference.  The little difference is attitude.  The big difference is whether it is positive or negative."  -W. Clement Stone

Surround yourself with positive people....  This couldn't be more true, especially when living in a foreign country.  This past weekend, we had some new friends remind us of that.  This caused me to do some reflecting on myself and how positive/negative I am.  I wasn't too excited with what I came up with.  If I am honest with myself, I actually complain a lot - Zach will confirm this (he's pretty good about complaining also).  But, I don't know why complain.  Do I want others to feel sorry for me?  Do I want to have a competition about who has it worse?

I don't know why I would want others to feel sorry for me.  I have a great life!  I have good health, a wonderful husband, loving family and friends, no debt, the chance to travel and see the world, etc.  On that same thought, why would I want to have a competition about who has it worse?  I obviously don't!!!  Yeah, I may have to get on a bus for 20 minutes then transfer to a subway to get pretty much anywhere in this city, but who cares?  I live in a coastal city with a million things to do and see.  If I wanted to, I could spend a weekend in Japan without blinking an eye.  Public transportation is great here.  The food is pretty tasty.  My co-teacher is great so far.  And, I am already starting to make friends.  I obviously have it pretty good here.

Yes, living in a foreign country can be frustrating at times.  Things that I would consider common sense, just aren't here.  My all-time, biggest pet peeve is when people chew food with their mouth open.  Here, people don't give it a second thought.  I can't complain about it; it is socially acceptable to do it here.

Anyway, what I guess I'm trying to say is that I plan on being more positive.  I don't want others not surrounding themselves with me just because I am a negative person.  A negative person brings everyone down.  So, if you all could help me be a more positive person, I would really be grateful: call me out if I am being negative - simple as that!  Today is day one of me being a more positive person!