One thing I learned during my son’s time in the military was that my filter matters. The things that cover the lens through which I view life affect how I see things. Those filters determine, to a large degree, whether I view life experiences as positive or negative.
Because I’m an amateur photographer, I love all the creative things I can do with the pictures I take. I’ve discovered that by adding different filters, I can completely change the look of a picture. I can take a sunny image and make it dark, or a dreary image and make it bright.
The same thing is true with my life. Depending on what filters I apply to situations, I can make them appear bright or dreary.
READ MORE: HOW TO THINK POSITIVELY
I discovered that I wasn’t even aware of the filters I was using. But now I’ve been more deliberate with the things that I use to filter life events:
1) The Bible
When I filter life through God’s Word, I find hope. Even the darkest situation looks better when I realize that God works all things together for good.
2) Previous Experiences
So often I can build on what’s gone before. I’ve seen bad situations turn out well if I just give them time. And I’ve seen good situations deteriorate when I do certain things. I can avoid past mistakes and build on what I’ve done right, if I just take a minute and remember.
3) Wise Counsel
Things always seem worse when I don’t share them. By asking for advice with those I trust and respect, I can often get the perspective I so desperately need.
These are the filters I use when life comes at me hard and fast. They help me focus on what’s important and frame the things that seem inconceivable.
