“The mind is its own place, and in itself, can make a Heaven out of Hell, a Hell of Heaven.” ~John Milton
One of my favorite people in Kansas City is Joe Colaizzi. Joe runs the KC Rescue Mission. I have never known Joe to do anything differently since I have been in Kansas City, and Pam and I have lived here for 23 years. During those years, he has championed the cause for homeless men and their needs (Emotional, Mental, Physical and Spiritual). Tirelessly and faithfully, Joe and his staff commit themselves daily to this cause. One day Joe let a group of us know that he had received some disappointing news…they were losing the building they were using to provide shelter, food and other support for the homeless men. Joe also said that ‘he only had a few months to find a new place that would accommodate their needs.’
My first thought was, “How overwhelming!” It’s not like he needed something else to do! Is it not enough that he carries this huge responsibility, but now he must find a new place in such a short period of time??
But, how Joe handled this situation was very different, he told everyone ‘how excited he was about this opportunity.’ He said he ‘couldn’t wait to see how God was going to move and make this situation better than any the Rescue Mission had ever seen.’ Wow! He was excited! Not overwhelmed.
Joe then continues to tell us he ‘can’t wait to see the results in 3 months’ and went on to say he ‘was absolutely caught off guard and had no idea what was going to happen.’ …LOL! It was remarkable to see how, in the face of misfortune, Joe remains energized, hopeful and uses his Faith to lean on and give him vision and direction. He shifts from problem to opportunity!
Joe gave us a great example of “Reframing”. It is an art. He may have moved a position or shifted his energy, regardless, the “reframing” set him in a direction to problem-solve and meet his challenge.
What is going on in your life where you might need a fresh perspective to deal effectively with today? What do you need to “REFRAME?” I am sure you all have heard the saying “where ever you go, there you are,” …but, what are you bringing with you when you arrive? Hopefully, it is not like the negative energy of an Igor!
Be like Joe: Look for the Challenge to become the Opportunity. The best question to ask is not always, “how do I get out of this?” But “what do I need to get out of this?” Practice your Reframing and make the difference you desire.
