"Leave it on the Curb"

Every day—whether I read the front page, turn on the TV or just listen to the whispers around me, I wonder, where is the good news? I’m saddened and frightened by the failure around me. Failure on the grandest scale has trickled its way to hurt and unnerve people just like me. Failure breeds negativity and hopelessness. Failure kills dreams.

As a self-proclaimed dreamer, my innate fear of mediocrity is fear enough without the heavy influence of mass failure. I remember posters in nearly every classroom in grade school that read, “Attitude is Everything.” And perhaps more than a pay raise, a vacation or a promotion—what I really need is an attitude check.

Several days ago I received a bright yellow post card in the mail from the Salvation Army. It asked me to donate my gently used clothing and household goods to families in need in Southwest Michigan. All I had to do was box it up, attach the bright yellow card to the box, and leave it on the curb.

And that’s exactly what I intend to do. Looking into the face of pessimism for me is like looking into the face of a stranger. I will remove my blanket of doubt and place it in a box—along with some kitchen wares and clothing. And before I leave it on the curb, I will attach that bright yellow card.

I’m going to clean up my attitude, and leave it on the curb. I’m going to box up my troubles and leave them on the curb too. Fears and failure? Straight to the curb. I know that if I leave fear, failure and negativity on the curb, there is a bright, golden invitation to hope—and to appreciate much to be thankful for.