JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. -- What is it about attitude that drives or provokes a positive as well as a negative response? What is it about the word attitude that causes organization or companies to produce slogan, visions or billboards enveloping the word? Well, there is power in the word especially when it's in action. I remember the first time I walked into an office and saw "The Power of Attitude" poster. Depicted on the picture was an electrifying scene with the following words: "Our lives are not determined by what happens; not by what life brings to us, but by the attitude we bring to life. A positive attitude causes a chain reaction of positive thoughts, events, and outcomes. It is a catalyst...a spark that creates extraordinary results." The poster caught my attention because it expresses a personal quality that defines us.

So...have you ever been in a conversation where someone would say, "Wow, they sure have a positive attitude or negative attitude." Think back on how the conversation went. I guarantee the one dealing with the positive attitude brought about more life and joy than the negative attitude conversation. I guarantee you the positive communication created an atmosphere that people wanted to be a part of. When you think about the situation, it wasn't the conversation that sparked the positive reaction; it was the positive attitude of the person.

Well, it is true that our attitudes whether it is positive or negative defines us; yet, we must focus on the positive! It stimulates discussion that sparks something grand in the atmosphere. Our positive attitude also brings an element of life to those you come in contact with. On the flip side our attitude can drain the life out of those around you. There is so much power in the attitude we display.

Therefore, in closing I leave you with this thought. If you are ever in a crowd and the conversation was about your attitude, what would the people say? What type of power does your attitude carry? Is it the spark that creates extraordinary result? I hope your response is positive because you must always remember there is power in the attitude you display every day!