Perception

At this moment, we all are experiencing the nationwide pandemic of COVID-19. While some have given up on their hopes and dreams for 2020, others have begun to thrive. I consider myself fortunate to see all the acts of kindness that are circulating. Communities are coming together, people helping each other, people dropping off groceries, and FB coming together to donate supplies to those in need. Neighbors are mowing each other's yards, and the list could go on. These acts of kindness have inspired me to take action, as well. You do not have to be rich to make an impact. A simple phone call could brighten someone's day, or even offering to drop off a cooked meal is helpful. Where others see famine, choose to see opportunity. While others may see social distancing as isolation, choose to see this as a time to connect with any and everyone as a virtual connection has become a reality at this moment. It is all about perception.

Perception is how one perceives or interprets something. Perception can be dependent upon our emotions or how we feel at a particular time. I think we have to train ourselves not to be so dependent on our emotions because frequently they fail us.  I used to overreact all the time because of my perception. I knew I needed to renew my mind in order to change my way of thinking.

A while ago, I recalled chatting with a friend about writing a book on "How to be Positive in a Negative World." At one point, things in society just seem to be so negative, and as a believer, we expect to be the light in a dark place, but somehow our light begins to dim. Is it because we now see the glass half empty? If so, how do we get back to seeing the glass half full? Furthermore, while this may not have been the case for you, it was a reality for me.

There was a book titled "The Power of Positive Thinking" that I read as a tool to help me perceive situations in a different light. This book, along with the Scripture, think on the things that are good, holy, and just (Philippians 4:8) helped me.  If you also experience seeing things in a dim light, consider reading both. They both are also available through audio. It is essential to look for the good in every situation.

Long ago, I determined that reading was not for me, and I hated it. The Bible was the only book I picked up, and that was because it was a mandate. I knew that eventually, something would have to change. I went to college and dropped out, and I begin to think I am just not made for education (my perceived thought). Then I moved across states and thought about school again, and a friend said, "T, you should go, and if you do not like it, you could stop." Sometimes what we need around us is positive people. People who can see that the grass is still green even though it has not rained for months. You still have to believe even with the natural signs say, you should not.

Eventually, I returned to school, a community college this time, the thought of going to a four-year institution just to have something happen after three years and receive nothing, just did not appeal to me. This time I was determined to get at least an associate degree, and with hard work and perseverance, I did it. I got an associate degree in accounting. Then I was able to move on to a four-year institution and got a bachelor's degree with a minor and two certificates. I was at my final step to try for a master's degree, and while one specific class pushed me to my breaking point (data analytics). I  am excited to say I finished my first master's degree a year ago, specializing in Data Analytics, and will have my second master's degree (MBA) done this year. I work at a job that pays for our education, and the plan is to pursue a Doctoral degree soon.

I wrote all that to say you have to be willing to change your thought process about the cards you have been dealt in life. Your past is behind you, and the way you perceive your situation today can determine your future. To this day, I love to read, and I read because knowledge is power, and the thought of people not having the opportunity to read long ago makes it that much more valuable to me today.  To date, I have read contracts for churches, businesses,  and I do so for my current job, along with interpreting policies and procedures. I never imagined this would be my life, and I have not even touched the surface (my perceived thought).

I am whom God says that I am, and I chose to perceive all the greatness that has occurred and is occurring in my life. I challenge you to open your eyes and see all that you have to be thankful for. If you feel like you have nothing to be thankful for, ask a friend, they will be more than happy to tell you how good you have it!

Feel free to share this site and comment on how you can or have changed your perception.

What do you believe in 2020 is possible for you? (the year that changed everything) I would love to pray and encourage you to believe that all things are possible, even if you or others can't see them.

I am living proof.