A
little thing can be enormously significant. Retired Brigadier
General Robinson Risner was a prisoner of war in North
Vietnam for more than seven years. He was in solitary
confinement for five of those years. He suffered from
cold, heat, malnutrition, and lack of fresh air.
He
was totally deprived of any human comfort. He jogged in
his cell by the hour. When he became so frustrated he
had to scream, he stuffed his underwear into his mouth
to muffle the scream. He would not give his captors the
satisfaction of knowing his frustration.
One
day, in the depths of despair, General Risner lay down
on the floor and looked all around his small cell. He
put his eye next to the cinder blocks, hoping that there
would be a crack in one of them. Fortunately, there was
a minute opening and he saw a single leaf. Later he stated
that seeing that evidence of life outside was a tremendously
uplifting and life-changing event.
When
I heard this story, most of my complaints in life suddenly
fell into context, and I resolved to be more appreciative
of the many blessings I had instead of complaining about
what I did not have.
Fact:
A quiet glance around you will reveal many blessings that
you have already received and will continue to receive.
Expressing appreciation for these blessings is a winning
approach to life.
To
receive more information about Zig Ziglar and/or to purchase his
best-selling audios and books go to www.yoursuccessstore.com
and save 20% or call 877-929-0439. |