We see what we are looking for

My sweet sister (I would say "in-law", but we don't do that any more---no "step", "half", or "in-law", just plain old family) posted this on Facebook yesterday. I was struck by how true this really is.  My superficial example is when you look at a make and model of a potential car you want to potentially buy, you start seeing them everywhere. A deeper example, for me, anyway, is when I begin writing down a gratitude list, my problems tend to begin to look pretty miniscule. Aristotle knew this way back when, when he said, "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit."  I have always loved that quote and had it hanging on my wall in my office when I was a guidance counselor.
     What are we really doing when we only listen to the negative vitriol of one political party or another?  What are we doing when we negate the fact that humanity and compassion are what we would see if we were in need?  For me and my house, we are choosing to focus on listening to one another (as much as we can, even if we disagree).  I'm attempting to do it with people with whom I disagree on Facebook, even. Some of you may scoff, saying, "Why even engage in name-calling wars?"  Exactly my point!  I want to focus on the good in the world, including laughing at Kirby (our 4 year old Lab rescue/foster failure), who is so silly at times and so serious at others, it is pure entertainment.  I want to focus on the beauty of the desert this time of year (oh, forget it---it's actually beautiful ALL times of the year).  I want to focus on treating others the way I want to be treated and truly walk the way God is constantly trying to teach me to walk.  Yes, I get frustrated when I see caustic remarks on Facebook, but I have a choice today. I can allow it to ruin my day, or I can state my opinion (or not) and go about my day, knowing I am a child of God.  
    For today, I am eternally grateful I am able to do the type of work I absolutely love to do, which is helping teachers and administrators improve their craft. I'm eternally grateful for a husband and pups who love and adore me. And I am grateful to be alive and well with the world.  I pray you are, too.  
    What are your examples of what you SEE in your life?  I'd love to hear them!

Happy Communicating!
Shelly