Learn to accept your lot in life

Kenny felt different. His life failed to measure up to his vision of perfection -- the perfection of the ideal family. Rather than accept the fact of his situation, he made life miserable for all who lived with him. Kenny was the product of a broken home because of divorce. He yearned for what he thought was the model family -- a family that storybooks are made of: mom, dad and baby makes three.

Kenny lived with his aunt and his older brother. His mom was in and out too, but his aunt was his main caretaker. Nevertheless, regardless of his loving environment and the attempts of the family to make his life normal, he still was disgruntled. He resented their efforts. He was determined to do anything but adjust and make the best of his situation. His life, in the estimation of most people, was wonderful. He was offered love and encouragement, and he was able to tackle almost anything he desired at school and socially.

Kenny is a young boy, but there are numerous adults who refuse to accept their circumstances and make the best of them. They become angry about things that exist only in their minds, within their idea of what should be. Instead of appreciating their present existence, one that is perhaps even better than the ideal one, they make matters difficult for themselves and others around them. They do little to take advantage of what's there now.

Often, counseling can help, especially if one is young and inexperienced. People have to come to terms with what's taking place in their lives, not that of someone else. The grass isn't greener on the other side of the fence; it just seems to be so to the one passing by.

If you traded places with another person, someone who seemingly owned the perfect life, you might be surprised. They possibly have it much worse than you. Everyone is where he is so he may learn from his situation.

You may gain solace if you're dissatisfied with what's been handed to you by reading 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. "Rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." You can't control what happens to you always, but you can choose how you react to it.

In the case of Kenny, he is still a child, but rather than receiving sympathy for his situation, the adults around him need to point out the good in his spot. Kenny is being raised like most kids in a stable household; it just doesn't meet his criteria of the characteristic family.

Children most often assume the attitude of those around them. If you're an adult involved in a similar circumstance, use your influence to help the child see life isn't perfect, but sometimes, it can be better. Everyone is different, and his life is different, so don't compare others' with his. Help him see the good in his situation.

Perhaps you were raised in a household with only one parent, in a foster home or by grandparents. It doesn't matter. Life may seem difficult for you, but if you watch your attitude and give thanks for what you have and what you can do, you will emerge stronger.

An easy life doesn't build strength. Just as your body weakens without weight and exercise, so does your mind.

Challenges build up your endurance. If you build yourself up mentally by refusing to give up and make the best of what happens, you will be much happier and stronger.

Nothing happens by chance. There is always a lesson to be learned, so look for it. Whatever you do, never allow yourself to assume a victim mentality. You are done if you do.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 27:11.