A Message of Hope

In the 1982 musical “Annie” the star of the show sang a very positive song that started with the following words: 

The sun will come out
Tomorrow
Bet your bottom dollar that tomorrow
There’ll be sun.
Now that’s faith that offers hope to listeners!

During the past two years it seems that some people have forgotten that message.  They have been so imprisoned by fear and confusion that they’ve lost their perspective.  Mixed messages combined with inconsistent and changing restrictions have led to questions about who to trust and what to do.

It’s been a tough time for everyone.  Some have faced illness, death and isolation.  Others have lost their employment or businesses.  Many have had relationship problems because family and friends have been so passionate about opinions that arguments occurred.

But there have also been bright spots during the troubles.  Most people have re-examined their values and begun to set new priorities.  The busyness of life has been slowed down.  Skills that were necessary for survival in years gone by have been re-introduced into society.  Gardening, cooking and eating at home, as well as spending time together are more common than in pre-pandemic days.

I have recently heard many people state that they are glad to have come to the end of 2021 as it was a tough year.  At the same time, they wonder what is ahead.  Here are some tips to help you enjoy the upcoming months:

1. Live one day at a time – Yes, you need to do some planning but make sure that there is flexibility in it. Leave the past behind and focus on the tasks and blessings of today.
2. Divide projects into three groups. “A” items are things that you must get done first.  “B” items can be done if you have time after accomplishing the “A”s.  “C” items are lowest priority and might never get done.  Each day reassess your list and focus on the new “A” items.
3. Practice self-care – My grandpa used to say “If you have your health you can make your wealth”. Now you might not be headed for wealth but you certainly won’t go far at all if you aren’t healthy.  So, rest, eat nutritiously, reduce your stress and do some things that will make your soul sing.
4. Be responsible in your work. Give a day’s work for a day’s pay.  Do what is assigned in a competent and time-sensitive manner.
5. Make sure your word is dependable. Tell the truth and follow through on what your promise.
6. Clean up your environment and maintain a safe and tidy living space. Get rid of what you don’t need.   Repair, sort and polish the things you need.  You will save time and energy if you have a system that works.
7. Deal will issues rather than procrastinating. Pay your bills on time.  Respond to those who appropriately seek information.  Address differences in your relationships before they fester and grow.
8. Give to others. Even a smile or greeting will quickly inject positivity into the world.
9. Dress up for you. Use the items in your bathroom and closet to polish up your appearance each morning.  It might be easier to neglect hygiene but you will feel so much better if you invest some time into starting the day out with care.  Don’t do it for others.  Do it for you!
10. Replace negative thoughts with positive truths. Give thanks for what you have and remember how you have survived trouble in the past.

Attitude and actions are so important for today and the future. And latch on to the positive message shared by Annie:

 “Bet your bottom dollar that tomorrow there’ll be sun”.