Persist without exception

My life is so full of marvelous things that at times I am overwhelmed with gratitude and the joy it brings. But if I am to be honest with myself, I must also admit to experiencing days on which I am equally overwhelmed with stress, worry and even fear stemming from the 3 full-time jobs I am undertaking at the moment: mother to three growing boys, full-time real estate agent and the creation of a new and soon to be national enterprise - Thriving Artist Alliance. On those rare yet emotionally depleting days when I suffer these negative concerns I find comfort and strength in the words of Andy Andrews from his book "The Traveler's Gift: Seven Decisions to a Successful Life". The story follows protagonist, David Ponder, at what is perhaps the worst moment in his life. He encounters an angel who takes him back in time to visit with a variety of historical figures each of whom has important words of wisdom to share about a decision that was key in his/her life. David learns one important "decision" from each character that once made the decision will be the difference between misery or mastery.

The Buck Stops Here
I accept responsibility for my past. I control my thoughts. I control my emotions.
I am responsible for my success.
The buck stops here.

I Will Seek Wisdom
I will be a servant to others I will listen to the counsel of wise men.
I will choose my friends with care.
I will seek wisdom.

I Am a Person of Action
I am courageous. I am a leader. I seize this moment.
I choose Now.
I am a person of action.

I Have a Decided Heart
I will not wait. I am passionate about my vision for the future.
My course has been charted. My destiny is assured.
I have a decided heart.

Today I Will Choose to be Happy
I will greet each day with laughter. I will smile at every person I meet.
I am the possessor of a grateful spirit.
Today I will choose to be happy.

I Will Greet This Day with a Forgiving Spirit
I will forgive even those who do not ask for forgiveness. I will forgive those who criticize me unjustly. I will forgive myself.
I will greet this day with a forgiving spirit.

I Will Persist Without Exception
I will continue despite exhaustion. I will focus on results.
I am a person of great faith.
I will persist without exception.

I have written the Seven Decisions on my bathroom mirror in china marker so that I can read them every morning as I prepare for my day and every night as I prepare for sleep. Considering the difficulties we've faced recently with the dip in our economy, wars waging in several countries, unemployment on the rise . . . the list goes on and on, the ideas expressed in the 7 Decisions have helped me build a life of happiness, a business worth continuing to build and a future that thrills and excites me. I strongly recommend Andy's books. Perhaps there you too can find something of value. Check out Andy's web site: www.andyandrews.com