by Grant Williams
I am a diabetic. It is very difficult for some people to say they have a disease. It seems to fester in the minds of many. They become consumed with the fact that they have a chronic disease, that they are not like others, that they will have to take medicine every day for the rest of their lives. Their lives are hijacked by their negative attitude.
A positive attitude, on the other hand, can change your whole life. Of course we all have to be conscious of our diabetes and monitor our sugar levels, but the disease does not have to take over our lives. The key to having a positive attitude is to do something you love—enrich your life by having other outlets, such as hobbies or a fulfilling job. I love to write poetry and editorials, and by having this hobby I use my time for construction instead of destruction. Instead of complaining, I bring joy into others’ lives through my poetry or mini-stories.
I don’t wake up each day thinking about my diabetes. Instead, I wake up with the attitude that today I will accomplish something and bring some happiness to someone.
A positive attitude can work wonders, and you can have one too. Take up a hobby, get a pet or go on a trip. By doing one or all of those things, you will find many rewards. If you like cooking, collecting, or gardening, or playing sports, do it. If you enjoy writing, then write the world’s best novel or a poem for a loved one. If you get a pet, you will spend time caring for this pet. Your pet needs you, and really doesn’t care if you have diabetes. By loving and nurturing your pet, you will feel better about yourself, too. You will be needed. If you take a trip, you will delight in the places you visit and the new people you meet. By making your life more fun, you will not be preoccupied with your diabetes. You won’t have time to feel sorry for yourself because you have diabetes.
Bring your positive attitude to work, too. Of course, your coworkers need to know about your diabetes for your safety, but your relationship with them can be so much more positive. Talk to your coworkers about your hobbies, trips or interest, instead of constantly moaning about your illness.
Of course, just because you’re not preoccupied with your illness doesn’t mean you should ignore it. Take charge of your health. If you have a job that requires a lot of stress and little exercise, take a walk at lunch-time or after work. Don’t skip a meal or snack, but don’t let the fact you have diabetes slow you down, either. Make your job rewarding, and don’t use your illness as a crutch.
My point is that when you do something you love, you don’t have time to grumble about your disease. If you dwell on the fact you are a diabetic, and want others to feel sorry for you, you will not be happy. You can choose to have a good attitude or a bad attitude. It is entirely up to you.
And good attitudes are contagious. You will be surprised at how people around you will react to your positive attitude. If you are focused on doing the things you enjoy, everyone around you will be more positive, too. It is up to you to get on with your life and enjoy your blessings. You can live a long, happy and productive life, and it starts with the right attitude.