This has been one of those “Is it over?” types of week. Our night shift hours changed from 2:30pm-11:00pm to 5:00pm-3:30am. Two members of our four man crew (supposed to be six) got sent to help another crew. This left only two of us to carry the load. Then yesterday I fell flat on my face (not literal) during a surprise inspection. I didn’t have anything in order. My fault, I know. Welcome to being human.

As I woke up this morning, I could feel the wear and tear of the week was weighing on me. Yep, I had a bad case of RBF (resting bad face 🙂 ) But, in the mist my groggy, just-woke-up, moment, I smiled. The longer I held it, the better I felt. Next came naming what I’m thankful for. Yea, I do that. “Food in the fridge and a roof over my head” type of thankfulness. Next came feeding the cat. Anyone who owns cats will testify how affectionate they are during feeding time. Finally came the first sip of morning coffee. GREAT JAVA-GOODNESS That’s so divine.

I am still trying to acclimate to this new sleep schedule. My mindset is more positive. Will a simple smile help every situation? Does one size fit all? No, this will not help every time. However, staying in a positive mind-set will allow us to overcome negativity.

Life is not good nor bad. It is for us to choose how we see it. Given the above circumstances, its easy to dwell on the negativity. Afterall, who wants to work 10 hours a day, fail and inspection, and change their sleep schedule all in one week. But we love bigger paychecks. And, overlooked improvements help keep us on track. Lastly, driving home at 3 in the morning is so uncongested. Change does bring a level of uncomfortableness. And that may shine a light on why we are so quick to oppose it. But when that change comes, and it will, never underestimate the power of a simple smile.

Until the next blog, live life, be happy, and find life’s happiness.

Steve Curtis

at1_retired@yahoo.com