As creative beings made in the image of the Creator of the Universe we create our own world. The tools we use to do this are our thoughts and emotions. What we thing about what happens to us is more important then the actual events themselves.

As I am writing this I have just returned from my morning walk. There is a large power company truck down by the water working on the lines. When I first saw the truck I was on the same level walking toward it. That power truck looked huge.

I went on to finish my walk and as I was walking down the hill I was looking at the same truck from above it. It appeared much smaller. An important lesson on perspective. Whether physical, mental or emotional perspective, it all matters.

The power company was here to repair lines damaged in a storm. We also had damage from the storm which will require a new roof. In the aftermath of such storms it is always tempting to be dramatic and turn everything into a dire catastrophe. I am not immune to this. But this time it was limited to a few moments of “what are we going to do?” Those only lasted until I realized we have people in place to help with these things. We live in the woods. Tree parts fall. That’s why we have insurance. When we stopped and realized what was ours to do and did it, the professionals we pay to do these things did their jobs.

When things happen, and they will, it is important to guard our thoughts. First from ourselves and then from others around us. Trying to move into the future and worrying about “what ifs” will only distract from doing what needs to be done in the here and now. There may be people looking at your circumstances who are very worried about your reaction (or lack thereof) to your circumstances. There are people who are worriers. There are also trouble makers. Let them be who they are and do what they do, but don’t let them into your head. Don’t let them disturb your peace or change your mind.

Finally when the storms come (whether literal or figurative) it is important to find things to be grateful for. Start with just one thing. There is so much to be grateful for in our recent storm. Bob, Callie and I weren’t hurt. The tree just damaged the roof, it did not fall into the house, we were not trapped inside or under the tree. Things can be replaced, lives can’t. We did not have water damage from the heavy rains. We have insurance. Our agent and adjuster responded quickly. We have a roofer in our community.

Next time you encounter a storm in life remember it’s not what happens to you, it’s how you think and react to the events. Change your perspective and you will change your outcome.