The headline news of the day is filled with stark new realities:

The economy isn't growing as fast as we want it to.
Unemployment rates will not decline any time soon.
Structural "gaps" for Blacks are widening, not closing.
Hope for change has turned to disappointment.

As frustration sets in, we often look for anything we can grab and hold on for dear life. All of our traditional anchors are breaking loose, and many of us find ourselves adrift without a compass. Often, at times like these, we need to pause for a moment of quiet reflection. We don't need a grand strategy or lofty goals. We need to face our immediate reality.

"Things turn out best for those who make the best of the way things turn out."

This is a challenge not to be defeated, but to figure out how to make the best of our current situation -- especially when our circumstances are not of our own making. Here is an approach that starts with today.

Just For Today...

Just for today I will try to live through this day only; and not set far-reaching goals to try to overcome all my problems at once. I know I can do something for 12 hours that would appall me if I felt that I had to keep it up for a lifetime.

Just for today I will try to be happy. I will not dwell on thoughts that depress me. I will chase them out of my mind and replace them with happy thoughts.

Just for today I will adjust myself to what is. I will face reality. I will try to change those things I can change, and accept those things I cannot change.

Just for today I will try to improve my mind. I will not be a mental loafer. I will force myself to read something that requires effort, thought and concentration.

Just for today I will exercise my soul in three ways. I will do a good deed for somebody - without letting them know it. (If they find out I did it, it won't count) I will do at least two things that I know I should do but have been putting off. I will not show anyone that my feelings are hurt; they may be hurt, but today I will not show it.

Just for today I will be agreeable. I will look as good as I can, dress becomingly, talk softly, act courteously and speak ill of no one. Just for today I will not try to improve anybody except myself.

Just for today I will have a program. I may not follow it exactly, but I will have it, thereby saving myself from two pests - hurry and indecision.

Just for today I will have a quiet half hour to relax alone. During this time I will reflect on my behavior and will try to get a better perspective on my life.

Just for today I will be unafraid. I will gather the courage to do what is right and take the responsibility for my own actions. I will expect nothing from the world, the world will give to me.

-- Unknown Author

We don't have to be victims of the headlines. Each of us can determine how we react to our circumstances. Take the time today to decide how you can make the best of the way things have turned out for you.  Share your comments below.

Roger Madison, CEO

iZania LLC