Although AARP may be knocking on his door soon, I’m sure that Bert considers himself to be in the prime of his life. His beard and hair is somewhat grizzled, but he considers this a sign of being well-seasoned. Life has taught Bert how to look at things in a positive manner and to impart encouragement to others. Like most people I know, he has had some rough times, in particular he has experienced some health problems. But even with his problems, he has a strong, positive outlook on life. I’ve been told that Bert has been a positive influence on others for as long as anyone can remember. Every time I see him or we talk on the telephone, he gives me words of encouragement or says something positive about my work. Over time I’ve come to realize I enjoy it a great deal. It doesn’t always seem like other people are truly happy or positive when I talk to them. I guess I’m a little too cynical at times. I’ve heard so many people use fake encouragement and make positive statements which I didn’t think they really believed. Usually these other people make these half-hearted statements for the sole purpose of obtaining something they wanted or they’re trying to look good. But Bert is different. He genuinely enjoys looking at the brighter side of life. He is consistently talking about how good life is and much he enjoys other people. Even though I may be cynical about other people at times, I believe Bert really does enjoy life, his work, his family and friends, and the people he meets. It’s refreshing to listen to him. I try at times to be positive and give words of encouragement not only to others but to myself. I know its the best way to live my life, but it’s hard. My mind is willing but my heart isn’t always in it. I’ve got to work on being more positive by seeing the brighter side of things, by making a positive out of a negative. It wouldn’t surprise me any if Bert wakes up every morning and thanks God he’s alive. If he’s thankful for living one more day then he’ll live that day to the fullest. This reminds me of the first few lines from a verse by S. H. Payer. “Live each day to the fullest. Get the most from each hour, each day, and each age of your life. Then you can look forward with confidence, and back without regrets.” Bert seems to me to be thankful to be alive each day. He seems to live each day to the fullest and encourages everyone he meets to be positive. Be positive. Give encouragement to others. Live each day to the fullest. All these sound vaguely familiar to me. Perhaps I’d be more positive and less cynical now if I had listened more closely in my Sunday school class when I was young. ### |
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