I have no clue who “Herm” is, but I think he hit the nail on the head.  Choosing to be positive takes a lot of effort. 

The other day, after listening to the bad news of the economy, plus the hideous things that people to do one another–you know….the usual news–I decided to focus on saying whatever would put things into a postive perspective.  Talk about effort! 

For example—–when I went to mail a letter at my favorite private post office. I drive across town to mail a package because I have a relationship with Tynan, the owner (no, not that kind)  He quit his corporate job to open one of those franchises. We’ve been FedExing together for at least 20 years.  It makes me feel like I live in a community instead of the great big city to work with him. 

Anyway, he started talking about how bad things were and how frightening the economy is.  I did not disagree—but what I said was, “Thank God, they are trying to do SOMETHING—-doing nothing would really get us in trouble.”   As neutral as that was, it changed the energy in the room.  Tynan’s smile came back and he immediately changed to another topic.  The lady behind me in line said “UGH, I bet you are one of those perpetually perky people!” 

I’ll take perky.