Make a Difference

TODAY I WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE

by Max Lucado

Today I will make a difference. I will begin by controlling my

thoughts. A person is the product of his thoughts. I want to be happy

and hopeful. Therefore, I will have thoughts that are happy and

hopeful. I refuse to be victimized by my circumstances. I will not let

petty inconveniences such as stoplights, long lines, and traffic jams

be my masters. I will avoid negativism and gossip. Optimism will be my

companion, and victory will be my hallmark.

Today I will make a difference.

I will be grateful for the twenty-four hours that are before me. Time

is a precious commodity. I refuse to allow what little time I have to

be contaminated by self-pity, anxiety, or boredom. I will face this day

with the joy of a child and the courage of a giant. I will drink each

minute as though it is my last. When tomorrow comes, today will be gone

forever. While it is here, I will use it for loving and giving.

Today Iwill make a difference.

I will not let past failures haunt me. Even though my life is scarred

with mistakes, I refuse to rummage through my trash heap of failures. I

will admit them. I will correct them. I will press on. Victoriously. No

failure is fatal. It's OK to stumble… . I will get up. It's OK to fail. I will rise again.

Today I will make a difference.

I will spend time with those I love. My spouse, my children, my family.

A man can own the world but be poor for the lack of love. A man can own

nothing and yet be wealthy in relationships. Today I will spend at

least five minutes with the significant people in my world. Five

quality minutes of talking or hugging or thanking or listening. Five

undiluted minutes with my mate, children, and friends.

Today I will make a difference.

Even though my life is scarred with mistakes, I refuse to rummage

through my trash heap of failure. I will admit them. I will correct

them. I will press on.

[Shaped By God, formerly On The Anvil]

Used by permission