If you don't like something, change it...

...If you can't change it, change your attitude. - Maya Angelou

I read that quote the other day and afterward I sat back and was almost dumbfounded at how true it is. How often do we find ourselves complaining (a.k.a. bitching, venting, whining) about something in our lives that we do not like? Whether it pertains to work, family, friends, or even something personal, do we ever sit back and make the decision (and/or commitment) to make a change or...[gasp]...change our own attitude about it? Of course, the latter is the hardest so we end up trying to change what we do not like (only to end up frustrated because we cannot) rather than changing our attitude toward it.

I did not like my weight so I decided to make a change. I opted for weight loss surgery because for whatever reason, I could not change my attitude toward food.

Maya's way of thinking can be applied to any situation. Some situations are simple - If you do not like your hair, change it. Some situations are a bit more delicate - If you are having a problem with a co-worker you can change your attitude toward the situation by mentally picturing yourself slapping the crap out of them and NOT getting into trouble.

The Serenity Prayer says it all: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.

Embrace the fact that God blessed us with free will. If you are not happy with something, you can either learn to accept it and move on or reject it and make a change.