September 13th is Positive Thinking Day, and this is a special day
in my eyes. As a person living with two illnesses, positive thinking is my way
of life. It's my lifestyle. I can remember it like it was yesterday, hearing
life-changing news that could have broken me down, but all I could think
about was keeping a positive mindset.
Before my diagnosis, I had always been a fan of popular quotes. I
liked to read through them, and they would make me happy. After I was diagnosed
with Lupus, and then pulmonary hypertension, these quotes energized me. I felt
a deeper spiritual connection with the words I was reading. I also felt like it
was my new purpose in life to help all people live a positive life.
At the time of my diagnosis, I also let go of all of the stress I was
carrying with me. Until this point, I had no idea how much I let stress
control my life. I didn't want any unnecessary stuff in my life. I felt
like I already had so much to deal with, and why add on more. I always say that
I wouldn't trade my diagnosis, it changed me, but in such an amazing way. It
was like I could finally see the beauty in everything, and the wonderful in the
small things.
I started to have better relationships with my friends and my
family. I started to experience life more. I mean, I wasn't scared of death
anymore. I feel like I faced death when I was diagnosed. Although I never
believed I had an expiration date, I thought that if I truly did, then I wanted to
live my best life. Here I am two years later, and I can say that the past two years
have been some of my favorite years. There has been so much change and growth, and
I owe it all to positive thinking.
When negative events happen, I think it is natural to react in any
way that is right for the person experiencing them, but when these events come
up, I like to be the healthy reminder that there is always a positive side. I am
considered "Positive Polly" among my friends. I noticed that it is
difficult to see through the negative, and I think everyone is entitled to be
reminded that life has so many beautiful gifts that are hidden among the
craziness of daily life.
I am happy to be able to live a positive lifestyle. This has given
me so many little gifts that I cherish everyday. I hope to be an inspiration to
others, so they know that with a positive mindset, you can push through any
hardship. Life is going to throw curve balls, but luckily we are strong, and we
are able to create the happiness in our lives. My wish is that everyone can
live the positive life that they choose.
Happy Positive Thinking Day!
Written by Elisa L.
