The secret to a long and happy life lies in being positive. In every situation, we should try to guide our thoughts in a direction where we believe that everything will ultimately turn out well. Have faith in God—that He has chosen this path for us.
A profound teaching from a revered saint has stayed with me. He said that every event in life has only two possible explanations—“God’s grace” or “God’s will.” If something happens according to your expectations, it is God’s grace; if not, it is God’s will. If we look at every situation through this perspective, life becomes much more peaceful and fulfilling.
Many researchers have found that people with a positive mindset tend to enjoy better health and longer lives. We all know individuals who remain cheerful themselves and spread happiness around them. Such people overlook others’ shortcomings, appreciate their strengths, and encourage them.
A story I recently came across on WhatsApp beautifully illustrates how a positive outlook can transform life.
The story goes like this: A writer was sitting in his study, noting down his experiences. He wrote that the past year had been very difficult—he underwent surgery and had his gallbladder removed, which left him bedridden for quite some time. He turned 60 that year and had to retire from a company he loved, where he had served for 35 years. His elderly mother passed away. His son was injured in a car accident and failed his final medical exam. A significant amount of money was spent repairing the damaged car. He concluded by writing that the past year had been terrible.
Naturally, these thoughts made him feel sad and depressed. His wife noticed his state and, upon seeing the paper he had written, quietly read it.
Understanding the situation, she went out and returned with another sheet of paper, where she described the same events—but from a completely positive perspective.
She wrote: “Last year, my husband was relieved of his gallbladder illness, which had caused him pain for years. He retired this year in good health. I thank God that he had the opportunity to work for 35 years in a company he loved. Now he has more time to write, which is his passion. This year, my 95-year-old mother-in-law passed away peacefully, without any suffering. Our son survived a road accident, though the car was damaged. In conclusion, last year we received God’s immense blessings, for which we are grateful.”
Reading this, the writer’s eyes filled with tears. He realized how a simple shift in perspective could transform one’s experience of life.
It is easy to say that one should always think positively, but if we consistently try, we can succeed to a great extent. One important thing to remember is to spend more time with people who themselves have a positive outlook. If we surround ourselves with pessimistic individuals, it becomes difficult to maintain positivity.
Some great thinkers also believe that yoga and meditation help cultivate positive thoughts. We should also dedicate time to social service. By serving others, we are in fact serving ourselves. The inner joy that comes from helping others fosters positivity and contributes to good health.
It is often said that a positive mindset helps a person overcome difficult situations more quickly and reduces stress.
If we observe people around us—within our families or social circles—we will notice that those who remain cheerful, maintain good relationships, and think positively are generally healthier. We need not focus on others; we must take care of our own health, and for that, a positive outlook is essential.
A branch of a rose can be seen in two ways—one may focus on its thorns, while another appreciates its beautiful and fragrant flowers.
Author
The author is the founder of the Never Say Retire mission. In order to achieve this goal, he also runs this website and his Facebook group Never Say Retire Forum has Hundreds and Thousands of members today.
