"All I Had Left Was My Attitude"
Posted: Sunday, September 16, 2007
by James P Krehbiel
Krehbiel Counseling
Several decades ago, I was privileged to attend a presentation held by psychiatrist, Victor Frankl, author of Man’s Search for Meaning. Frankl’s family was the unfortunate victim of the Holocaust during Nazi Germany’s rein in Europe . His family was killed, while he spent years in a concentration camp but survived. Frankl’s foundation for therapy was based upon his experience and his desire to see his patients develop a sense of meaning and purpose for their lives. I will always remember him saying, “When everything was taken away from me, all I had left was my attitude about what was happening. I made a choice not to be bitter." His inspiration led me to purchase a white shirt which has a logo stating, “Attitude is everything." I continue to wear that shirt to work in honor of him and his legacy.
There are little ways for all of us to display a positive attitude while finding meaning and purpose for our lives. In the process of genuine involvement and sharing, it is important to remember that an attitude that promotes meaning is created because of what we do, not because others choose to reciprocate. For example, sometimes the right thing to do is to be compassionate to others whether they appreciate it or not. Finding meaning and purpose is about our responsibility, not how others’ react to us.
It is important to do the right thing because it generates positive energy, makes us grateful, empowers us, and promotes integrity. There are many ways all of us can feel positively connected to the global community. Here are some examples:
- Attend worship services and pray for the needs of others
- Maintain a positive attitude with others. Dwell on peoples’ positive qualities.
- Treat people that annoy you with patience and respect.
- Let other people be ‘right’ even if you disagree with them.
- Volunteer time and service to community agencies.
- Give charitable donations to relief organizations.
- Donate to breast cancer walks and other promotions for serious illnesses.
James P. Krehbiel, Ed.S., LPC is an author, freelance writer and nationally certified cognitive-behavioral therapist practicing in Scottsdale , Arizona . His book, Stepping Out of the Bubble is available at www.booklocker.com . James can be reached at www.krehbielcounseling.com .
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More commentshi james, it's called addiction. the place where my head is at right now needs an escape, and writing is it, and yes, unfortunately, or maybe not, i do stay up all night sometimes writing because i can't sleep. it's kind of fun. have a good week, best regards, sue thomSusan, Well, at least your addiction is a meaningful one. Just get some sleep though!
Good article. Thank you.You are welcome. Thank you for reading it.
Good one James. As a society we seem be becoming increasingly narcissistic and trend obsessed. What some view as a "major" issue these days doesn't come close to the challenges faced by those who lived through the Holocaust. I recently had occasion to review the rise of fascism in WW2 era Croatia, and the mass psychosis that was unleashed at that time resulted in some of the worst human rights abuses on record. These days our 'problems' pale when compared to what some brave souls had to contend with when there was no state security, no insurance and not even the prospect of a meal.
Good article, meanwhile I had the blog you objected to removed. The intent was meant to be funny and within the context of my Girltalk blog, from whence it came, it isn't misconstrued as anything else. But I think searchwarp is not the right place for it as was out of context here and after publishing it I was concerned (hence I edited in the disclaimer) it could cause offence. It did and so I have had it removed.
Creative Blogger, Thank you for your response and being sensitive to those who may have taken offense. I truly appreciate the way you handled this. Take care.
Thank you for saying what a few others may have thought but been unwilling to express. After publishing I did get a sinking feeling and hence edited in the disclaimer. I should have gone with my first gut instinct and requested immediate removal. Context is everything and I shall bear that in mind in future.
Hi James, this is beautifully written and conveys Dr. Frankl's message so well. You're right--attitude is crucial. Thanks for the inspiration! Warmly, Samantha
Dr. Frankl's book did more for my "why me?" attitude in one afternoon of reading than the "experts" did in ten years of therapy. I'm a counselor now myself and use Dr Frankl's message quite often with my client's. Great article James!Myla, Thanks for reading my article. I am glad we can be of help to others.
James, It is certainly all about attitude. I did not start on my journey back to mental health until I decided to. Thanks James
Dan, Thanks for your comment and joining my fan club. I really appreciate it. Be well.
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