It’s gloomy today as I start writing. The sky is heavy, and a sadness is behind my eyes. It’s not because of the weather, but the environment does influence our moods, and we need a full toolbox on hand to get us through gray days—no matter how they come. We don’t control the weather, accidents, harsh words from others, politics, interest rates, and the list goes on. But we control our toolbox.

In my toolbox, I have books, baking supplies, art pencils, a puzzle, and a list of friends I might call. The trouble is that I can’t find my toolbox. Where did I put it? What house is it in? When did I last need it or see it?

My excuse is old(er) age—that usually works, but not always. Sometimes, I set the day aside to curl up in a chair, stare at the TV, and let myself feel low. After all, life does throw undesirables our way, and we don’t always dodge them. Life happens, and sometimes going with the flow is the best we can do. Also, a long afternoon nap never hurt anyone.

What lifts me today are the wonderful people in my life, past and present. I can’t feel sad for long if I count my blessings and feel gratitude. Barbra Streisand sang, “People, people who need people, are the luckiest people in the world . . .” Isn’t that the truth?

Even introverts, those who restore their energy from being alone, need people in their toolbox—at least one good one.

What’s in your toolbox? It’s important to know what helps you when your energy is low, and possibilities seem distant or absent. We all have those days—never think you are the only one.

My rule is to allow myself to feel miserable for a specific amount of time and then to kick myself in the butt and get on with life.  We can’t deny or push aside normal and reasonable emotions—they are real. But we don’t need to live there.

We don’t want to live there—right?

We all know people who obviously choose and enjoy being on the wrong side of pleasant, and we can’t change a single thing about them. But we don’t have to be like them—every single one of us can paint our toolboxes bright and fill them with what brings us joy.

It takes effort and energy to be a downer in our world, and it takes effort and energy to contribute positively and productively—choose your hard. The choice is always ours, even when it’s our turn to be dumped on—and we can depend on that.

Find and fill your toolbox.

Until the next time: Live while you live