[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4uG2kSdd-4[/youtube]Why is it some people fall apart at the first sign of adversity while others are only motivated to work harder? Is tenacity genetic, environmental or innate? Is a positive attitude learned, motivated or a Divinely given gift? Why do some people inspire while others need to be fed inspiration for the tiniest pulse of motivation? I look at some people like Nick Vujicic with no arms, no legs and no worries and am amazed at his passion and drive. I remember Randy Pausch and his incredible message to humanity inspiring everyone to live their lives well and fully. There are numerous disabled athletes, successful physically challenged professionals, thriving mentally limited individuals, countless numbers of people who have lived through traumas ranging from the Holocaust to unimaginable acts of physical or emotional abuse, who not only find happiness but also inspire others. What sets these people apart from others who thrive only on their own victimization? These incredible individuals are giving us all a wake-up call. We only have one life to live, one limited time span. Happiness is a choice! Everyone wakes up each day with a decision to make; wallow in self-pity or be happy. What ever path you walk, remember, Life Is Now! The past is a myriad of old memories and some people put so much stock into those memories they limit their futures. Hopes and dreams are a glimpse of what could be, but now is where we always are so it is the journey, not the destination that is our existence. I remember a poster my sister had hung in her bedroom. It said, “Today is the first day of the rest of your life.” It overstates the obvious, but it is a profound truth. I am the first to admit, we all have our stories, but if you let your yesterdays choke you, you loose your todays and tomorrows. My advice: It isn’t easy, but it is simple! Find the way to let go of the toxic elements in your life — an injured past, a bad relationship, financial woes — if you lost your dreams, find them. There is a way out there for you to discover your happiness, but YOU have to find it. Every time you slip back into a victimized shell, think of Nick Vujicic and get back up again! Like Nike says, Just Do It! Dare to live your dreams! Casi