The Power of Positive Thinking

There is one thing that a lot of the greatest people throughout history have in common: they believed that they could do anything. Even when others doubted them, they set out to accomplish the seemingly impossible. They never gave up on themselves. They saw a problem as a challenge; a set back as an opportunity. They put in the hard work and made the sacrifices because they could see what others could not: there is power in your thoughts, in your faith. They always look to the bright side.

I run across medical cases all the time where a patient has done the impossible. A man that should not be able to walk will walk if he believes he can and is determined to overcome. I see a miracle in my own grandmother. After her stroke, the doctors told us over and over that she would be bedridden and that she would never be able to talk again. On her good days, she can talk, and most of the time she is able to communicate. She is walking and interacting with us as she normally would; laughing at the old family stories and recognizing us with a bright smile.

There is so much about thought and energy and faith that we don't understand, but those that believe can overcome. If a patient considers themselves an optimist, their healing time after surgery is quicker and their pain levels are lower.

I draw inspiration from these cases. I try to remember that it will all work out if I believe it will; if I have faith in THE BIG PLAN that God has in store for me. I focus on the positive. I hear "next" and not "no". I sign my name as Angie Mack, RN in my notebook doodles.