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Life is such a flurry of happiness and sadness, cheer and disappointment, and brevity and epicness. Internationally, armed conflict continues to color the lenses through which individuals see the world. Nationally, we face an economic downturn that some have classified as the worst since World War II. Here in California, unemployment has soared and families continue to lose their homes. In my household, a family member will go through trial for driving under the influence (DUI) and face the many tribulations that accompany that experience. Personally, I continue to analyze and prepare for the possibility of a two-day per month furlough.

Having never gone through this before, I calculated what a two-day furlough would mean to me fiscally. It would equate to a ten percent reduction in pay, the equivalent of hundreds of dollars. Combined with an increased mortgage payment, it is about a $1,000 swing. That is the bad news.

However, the good news is that I still have my lola, my uncle, my cousins, and Godchildren. My fraternity brothers are doing good work. The organizations and associations I am a part of or help with are doing well also. In less than one month I am taking on a new position with a higher ceiling to reach for. I am feeling appreciated and productive.

It just goes to show that if one looks for the negative in life, one can find it. Also, if one looks for the positive in life, one can find that as well.