Two and a half things

When everything is boiled down to it's simplest denominator there are only two things that we can actually control.

The first being our actions.  It is only your responsibility on how you react to any situation.  Sounds easy, but we all struggle from time to time with the actions of others and react in ways that may not truly reflect who we really are.  On the reverse, everyone you encounter has the same responsibility for their actions.

The second is our attitude.  It's true that kindness will eventually turn the heart of those that treat us poorly for no apparent reason.  You can choose each day, or even right now, to choose your attitude.  Are you going to be like Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh and mope around all day, or are you going to choose to be a joyful person?

For myself, I sometimes add another personal responsibility for myself and that is managing expectations (the half a thing).  We all want the best possible outcome from every interpersonal relationship, business deal, or plans for our lives.  It is my belief that when we have imagined a certain outcome or reaction to any of the above and it doesn't meet our imagined expectations we are disappointed.  There is nothing wrong with the disappointment because it is a feeling and feelings are true.  I think in those situations where we are disappointed, it is the stark contrast between the desired outcome and the truth of the situation.

This may require change on your part (I am part of that statement).  Choose your attitude, choose actions that reflect who you really are, and realize that people are people and do what they do.

Ephesians 4: 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.