Day 521

There is a children's book called "Fortunately" by Remy Charlip that has been a favorite read-aloud for decades. The premise of the story is that when you find yourself in a fortunate situation, it might lead to an unfortunate one down the road. Of course, the reverse is true as well.

After my walk with Sam this morning, I peered up at the slightly menacing sky and decided to turn the sprinkler on anyway. Gus is my second walk, so we headed out and found ourselves in a small downpour about three blocks from home. We looked at each other and, as one, began to scurry through the raindrops. That was unfortunate (Just ask Gus), but the fortunate part was the trees no longer needed water!

There have been numerous times in my life when an unfortunate event led me to something, or someone, that was very fortunate indeed. Every life is confronted with negative experiences through the years. There are only two choices when your journey hits a bump in the road...

1. Succumb to the negative feelings, give up hope and wallow in self-pity.

Or...

2. Accept the unfortunate turn of events (no matter how dire) and take steps to move in a positive direction.

There have certainly been a few times in my life when "wallowing" would have been the easiest road to follow, but there is no positive, forward movement in that choice. Knowing that the 'Unfortunate Circumstance' will remain unless steps are taken to remedy the situation, is enough for this girl to move forward and away from a hopeless situation.

Like Gus, the next time you get "caught in the rain," just move forward to a place where you can find shelter and shake the unfortunate occurrence off!