March 2000

To reach one's goals can have tragic consequences.  We never outgrow our need for a challenging goal, something to live for, and something that gives purpose to our existence.  I really believe that to set and to reach goals requires a positive attitude.

"The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind."  William James

"People are about as happy as they make up their mind to be." Abraham Lincoln

Somewhere along the way I ran across some steps to a more positive attitude:

	Slow down and take time to smell the flowers.
	Have some planned procrastination or "creative loafing" in your life.
	Put more humor in your life.
	Get away from it all be reading a book, visiting a friend, or going to the movies.
	Accept what you cannot change.  Practice the prayer:    "Lord, grant me the serenity to accept the things I     cannot change; courage to change the things I can &    the wisdom to know the difference.
	Be sure that you are in control of your life.  Check reading lists, TV viewing habits and other activities that would keep you from reaching your goals.
	Stop worrying.  Worry does not solve a problem; it will not cure a disease, it will not add years to your life.  It saps your strength, steals your peace of mind and leads to further frustration.

"Thou will lead me in perfect peace." - Isaiah 26:3

It was William Carey who said: "Attempt great things for God and expect great things from God." Set a worthy goal for yourself!

Something to think about until next month. 

May God bless.

Pastor Bob