This is really just something I’ve been thinking about as we continue our journey around East Africa. Everywhere we’ve been we’ve met people from all different places with totally different stories. They all have something in common, though. 1. They ended up in East Africa. 2. They all think positively.
I first came across this fact while talking with the Pete and Mama C. On separate occasions they each told us that you just had to lead life with a purpose–believe in yourself and what you’re doing–and the doors will eventually open for you. I had always heard this growing up but it was more inspiring to actually see living proof that it works.
The second time the power of positive thought struck me was in the Mufindi region with Jenny and Geoff. They’ve been there for around five years building up their children’s village, garden, and clinic trying to make the area a better place. It hasn’t always been easy for them, but they’ve kept working and are clearly successful now.
Then we met Curry and Chev in Njombe. They are a sister duo who moved here two years ago and are in the beginning stages of starting something like Jenny and Geoff. They plan on being really education based which will be an amazing addition to the town. If they teach people how to be more sustainable while practicing it themselves, then the ideas will spread even faster. Like I said, they’re still getting started, but just from our brief encounter with them I know they’ll succeed. They have such faith and confidence in themselves and in what they’re doing it would be impossible for them to fail.
Again, you’re always told that you will succeed if you only believe in yourself. I’m here to tell you it’s true. Positive thoughts in all aspects of life are truly life changing. It’s amazing how much can be accomplished with a little happiness. Life is tough, sure. Each day everyone is presented with challenges. It’s easy and far more dramatic to complain about all of the problems. But negativity accomplishes nothing. Granted, no one can be happy all of the time, but what is happiness without something to compare it to? That’s the beauty of it. Nothing is perfect all the time. You have to accept the good and the bad equally. Then, with a little positivity, you will be happy.
Love, Ellie