When life is negative, the brightest place is on your knees.

by Michele Daniels
(Calgary, Alberta, Canada)

I complain a lot...in fact I was complaining just this morning...

After I had put my 14 month old daughter down for a nap I went to check my e-mail and I found this waiting for me. I know God had this in place for just such a moment as this morning. I have learned recently that when I consider life has gotten too much to bear (I say "when I consider" because I make mountains out of mole hills all the time) the brightest spot to be found is the distance between my knees and the ground.

It is the hardest habit to break that of complaining...I think because it creeps up on you that most of the time you are totally unaware you are even doing it. It is like this black cloud, so heavy and thick, blankets you and before you know it it has molded itself to become who you are.

To break this habit involves PRACTICE!!! You have to remember that you are not going to get it right the first time...the saying "practice makes perfect" is so true. You also need a lot of prayer. Time with God softens and heals. He is working within your life even when you think you are handling it all on your own.

I find when I am consumed by negativity I have to remove myself from what is causing it...that means telling a person I have to "step out for a moment," it isn't easy because they generally want to know what is bothering me but it is vital....like breathing is in order to live. Or it may mean turning the t.v. off. It can also mean returning that Library book that has you so bothered.

At first these are not easy to do. I mean who wants to walk out on a person when they are complaining? As a friend or family member you want to be there to help, offer advice, perhaps give suggestions...but if you are not healthy, I mean if you are getting so frustrated how are you going to be in a position to help anyone. If you approach a person or situation all "grumpy" no one is going to feel better and COMPLAINING will still be shadowing you.

Remember, the best example is your example...it's you! If you don't want negative, complainers following you then don't stand at the front of the line.