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Have you ever noticed that it is easier to be grumpy or impolite with those who are dearest to you as opposed to friends and acquaintances?    Today is all about attitude…an attitude check on how you (and I) act, treat and live with those to whom we are closest.

 

When I was pregnant with my first child, I was meeting a friend and her young daughter for breakfast.  She said something to me that I have not forgotten.

 

      “I try, as much as possible, to be joyful around my child.” 

 

Profound.  If I want joyful kids, they will learn to be joyful from my husband and me.  Of course, some is innate.  My husband is one of those people who is simply happy 95% of the time.  But I do think how we handle and respond to the day in-day out stuff of life can be learned behavior. 

 

I am not saying to never let your children see you unhappy, crying or angry.  My kids have seen me in all those situations.  By all means, they have to learn that those things are part of life too.  But in the normal everyday kind of stuff, what characterizes your disposition? 

 

So, smile!  Enjoy today and the blessings God has given you.