Learning to Stop Complaining…

I was watching the weather report last week and was surprised to see ‘Weather Alert’ scroll across the bottom of the screen – surprised because I was sitting in front of my TV in a tank top and gym shorts. The anchorman was filming on location to demonstrate the ‘bad weather’. He donned a poofy parka as if he were standing in the armpit of Alaska. He held up a giant thermometer that hovered at 60 degrees and lamented about the ‘frigid’ weather.

Hey buddy – its 60 degrees. Residents in other states call this a heat wave.

In this economy, it’s easy to complain about our ‘sad, sad’ lives as Americans but compared to the rest of the world, we’re pretty darn fortunate. I didn’t get shot at, my house hasn’t been bombed, a tsunami didn’t harm my family, I was able to eat today (though probably too much), and I can worship as I please.

Thank you anchorman. Thank you for reminding me that, even with no job and bills filling my mailbox, life ain’t all that bad.

Smile America… it’s 60 degrees.

Posted by Beks on November 9, 2009 at 5:00 AM in Keeping Motivated | 14 Comments »
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My Frugal Miser responded:
Posted: November 9th, 2009 at 5:58 am
That’s the right attitude! I’m going through a very similar situation to yours, so please believe me when I say my heart goes out to you.

Going from a low six-figure income to doing mystery shopping and merchandising to make ends meet really lets me appreciate things in a different way.

Now I’m thankful for the little things, like my health.

Keep your chin up, Beks!
Jan responded:
Posted: November 9th, 2009 at 7:42 am
Oh I hear you! Night before last I was waiting to pick up my daughter and texted my friend in CA (I’m in PA) that it was a warm beautiful night. He said he was freezing and in front of the heater. I checked our temp – 41 degrees. His was probably 20 degrees higher. It’s all in what you’re used to.

I’m aware every day that my problems are itsy in comparison to most of the world.
John DeFlumeri Jr responded:
Posted: November 9th, 2009 at 9:08 am
We have a lot more than we think we do, I agree with you.

John DeFlumeri Jr.
Jen responded:
Posted: November 9th, 2009 at 9:41 am
So very, very true!! Looks like you’ll know what to be thankful for on Thanksgiving!
Amanda responded:
Posted: November 9th, 2009 at 11:19 am
hah, it’s 60 degrees here too, except I live in Wisconsin. for early November, it’s AWESOME outside right now. everything’s relative.
PH responded:
Posted: November 9th, 2009 at 11:24 am
How true.
Thank you for the great reminder! It’s necessary to keep a proper perspective.
I lived in a western country where bomb threats are commonplace, evacuation of home and office is practiced regularly and seeing signs posted on the street saying, “Caution: Sniper on duty” was never a joke. I know America is not perfect, but I feel very privilaged to call it home-even if where I live in it will soon below freezing.
Bobby responded:
Posted: November 9th, 2009 at 1:02 pm
Perspective, Use It or Lose It;-).
Suzanne responded:
Posted: November 9th, 2009 at 1:17 pm
I really enjoy reading your blog. I am in a bit of a funk and really appreciated what you said today. Thank you.
Family Man responded:
Posted: November 9th, 2009 at 1:36 pm
Well Said Beks. I couldnt agree more. We all get so stuck in our daily lives we often forget to stop and smell the roses.
Gobankingrates responded:
Posted: November 9th, 2009 at 8:44 pm
it just goes to show that you gotta take a look on the bright side of life every once in awhile to really appreciate what you have.
Beks responded:
Posted: November 9th, 2009 at 8:53 pm
Mr Frugal Miser – I’m so sorry! I hope things get better!

Jan – You are probably right. I freeze at 41.

PH – It’s a great place to live.

Suzanne – Thanks. This blog helps me to always try to look at the bright side.

Family Man – Thanks!
AP responded:
Posted: November 9th, 2009 at 10:53 pm
We really have it good here. The difference between being here and a third world country is huge.
Michelle H. responded:
Posted: November 10th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
What a great post! We have so much to be thankful for — all year long! Not just Thanksgiving Day. Blessings!
Nicole responded:
Posted: November 11th, 2009 at 1:04 am
Amen sister! We area bit spoiled here. The sad thing is I wish it were cooler so I could bake something! I hear on Thursday it’s supposed to be a chilly 65 degrees! WooHoo!!