And so it begins...

I'm on day 2 of my 40 day adventure. It's amazing how much more I notice negativity now that I'm so focused on avoiding it. 

How do you define negativity? Is talking about something that went wrong considered negative or is it just sharing with someone about your day? Then, if I put a positive twist on it does it void the negativity or is it still negative? The margins in this challenge are vague and it's been interesting, already, to search my heart and really define the areas where I tend to lean toward negativity. I've effectively decided that anything that doesn't bear good fruit is probably negative and not necessary to discuss or entertain. (Seems like a no-brainer.) I think to myself, "If I say this or entertain that conversation, will it benefit me or the other person in any way?" If the answer is no, it's time to move on. Although, there's a twist in this method of thinking as well. I could easily think, "Well, of course. If I vent this, I will feel better. So, of course it will benefit me." But that doesn't mean it's good or positive or necessary.

Tonight I realized that it's a lot harder to live this out when I'm hanging with a group of friends. I caught myself more tonight than I have in the last two days. I was looking for a parking space and finally found one that was fairly close to where we were going and proclaimed, "Awww man. Now I have to pay for parking!" Seriously? I totally missed the fact that I got a sweet parking spot! Fortunately, my cohorts quickly brought this to my attention and I realized just how hard this adventure is going to be. 

Later, we were headed somewhere else and I was pulled over. As I was stopping my car, I could feel the tension coming up and, again, my trusty cohorts quickly reminded me that I shouldn't get worked up over something so small. Turns out, the cop that pulled me over was the nicest cop I've ever met (aside from my father). He only pulled me over to inform me of the fact that the lane switch I made was a common and yet dangerous one that people don't realize is illegal. He never even asked for my license!

I realize how much I worry and fret over things that are out of my control and is, at times, not even necessary. I focus on the "what if's" rather than the truth of what's in front of me. I believe it's referred to as "making a mountain out of a mole hill". (Random Note: Has anyone ever actually seen a real mole hill?)

Lastly, I had a realization today that it is nearly impossible for me to live out the things God's called me to if I'm constantly focusing on the negative. If I so easily defeat myself, how can I possibly encourage others?