After the Storm......

Have you ever wondered why is it that after we go through a bad phase in life we seem to come out better for it? It use to puzzle me too until recently after I stared down a gunman's nozzle I realized why.

If you have ever been in a situation like I did and survived to tell the tale you would be more than grateful for everything. And the worst part is that my family home was invaded by gunmen which left us with a feeling of being so vulnerable.

I used to place few emphasis on the things that matter the most to me in like my family, my friends and the joy I get from accomplishing goals and helping people.

It was after that I began to really feel the joy in seeing simple things like the tree leaves dancing in the gentle summer breeze. It was then that I began to really appreciate the twinkle of love in my daughter's eyes every time she sees me.

Listen, I happen to live in the crime capital of the Caribbean which is Jamaica. There is not a single day that you don't read or hear negative news or stories coming your way. The caustic gossip and idle chatter that surround you can make you feel miserable absorbing all this stuff.

That's why it is important to develop a positive attitude towards life. Developing one does not happen overnight but it can be done. Doing things like reading inspirational literature and articles, listening to uplifting music and having constructive talks with others are ways to build up your positive attitude.

If more people could get access to books like Think and Grow Rich and The Laws of Success among others what would be the impact on our society? It is materials like these that we need to use to build up our self-esteem so as for us to have greater respect for life and people.

Did that gunman scare the life out of me? Hell no. Instead he made me appreciate life more than ever. It made me realize that no matter what you have been through you can overcome. Life's too short to be brooding over what when wrong or what might have been.

All I am focus on right now is to make use of whatever time I have left on earth. I have even stopped thinking about what others think about me because it doesn't matter anymore to me.

As someone once said, "Those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind". Stay positive, it is the best way to reach out for success.

Copyright © Nicholas Dixon

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