At the middle school I teach at, the morning announcements for each day end with the following statement..."make it a great day....or not. The choice is yours"

I've been at this school since September, and it has taken me until now to understand the truth of this statement. I believe the level of our happines is mostly to fully controlled by our attitudes.

I acknowledge that there are things that happen in our lives that we cannot control. I have been blessed with great parents, along with the best wife and kids, extended family, and friends. I realize that there are many who deal with abusive parents, and tragic events in their lives. These are certainly not "happy" situations. However, I have become more aware than ever that the level of happiness and satisfaction in our lives is directly related to how we react to the circumstances in our lives, not the circumstances themselves.

The following are some suggestions I've learned about how to "create" happiness:

• Continually think positive thoughts. The more we look at the positive in things, the more of it we will see in all we do.
• Treat obstacles as opportunites. Instead of focusing on the problem, focus on the solution and seek positive opportunities.
• Be more of a giver than a taker.
• Keep smiling Such a simple thing, but the power of a smile cannot be underestimated. Our positive attitude and action will follow, and the response from others will amaze.
• Make the conscious choice to be happy. God even says this is His will for us. I Thessalonians 5:16 says "be joyful always" Verse 18 says to "give thanks in all circumstances"

I agree that the above ideas are sometimes easier said than done. I don't have good days every day, but I can share this from experience: the days I make the conscious effort to think and act in a positve way and follow the above guidelines, are usually the most positive, successful, and fulfilling ones. 

I challenge myself each day to be positive, and it becomes easier and more automatic each day. With God's help, we can make a difference for Him by following His will to be joyful and share this joy with all that we come in contact with. I challenge anyone else to do the same