The true test in life does not occur when all is going well. The true test takes place when we are faced with challenges. Some people have a positive attitude towards life only when all is well. However, when the going gets tough, their attitude changes instantly, and they become very negative or are consumed with self pity.

"I don't measure a man's success by how high he climbs but how high he bounces when he hits bottom." George S. Patton

Christopher Reeve is an example of someone who had faced challenges. Here was a person who was very successful and active, however, he had a riding accident that left him paralyzed. He could have felt sorry for himself. Instead, after his accident he raised money for research on paralysis, directed a film, and wrote his autobiography, Still Me.

I recently talked with someone who was having difficulties; part of the problem was they were sitting around just feeling sorry for themselves. My advice to them was "do something productive" rather than sit and think!

Be conscious of your attitude. Work extra hard at keeping your attitude positive in all kinds of weather, through all the challenges of life.

A good quote to reflect on when you are facing challenging times: "Any fact facing us is not as important as our attitude towards it, for that determines our success or our failure." Norman Vincent Peale

Catherine Pulsifer is one of the editors of Words of Wisdom 4 U, http://www.wow4u.com. You will find a collection of motivational and inspirational thoughts, stories, quotes, poems, smiles, proverbs, and more at Words of Wisdom 4 U!