Is Your Attitude Infectious?

One day this past summer, I visited an art camp for teenagers from all over the state. To attend the two-week camp, students must audition in their field of interest (art, dance, orchestra, choir, photography, drama, film). The judges accept only the best, so the level of talent at this camp is high. Once accepted, the two weeks are nearly free to the student, so the playing field is the same for those whose families would normally not be able to afford an opportunity like this.

My family visited for the final orchestra performance, and I can honestly say it was as good as any college-level and even many professional orchestra performances I’ve seen. My husband and I marveled at the musicians’ professionalism and talent. We were also amused when we saw the same musicians around the camp, wondering why these professional musicians were acting like sixteen-year-old kids—silly, awkward, shy. Oh, right, we reminded ourselves, they are only sixteen.

One violinist was especially enjoyable to watch. Some people are technically perfect and exceptionally gifted in their craft. Others have a joy for what they do, and that’s clear to everyone. This kid had both.

His joy and passion for the music and performance was infectious. He was practically dancing in his seat, swaying to the music with his violin as his dance partner. What was even more interesting was how his behavior affected those around him. Like a pebble dropped into a pond, causing the water to ripple, his passion for the music rippled away from him. The entire violin section began swaying with him, and soon other orchestra sections were swaying in rhythm too.

He was the epicenter, and his joy visibly spread to the other musicians.

Away from the stage, these kids were just kids. Many of them no doubt struggle to fit in or find a place among their peers at home. Many are the “artsy” kids labeled as weird or geeky—or worse. Their attending a camp where they’re encouraged to grow as artists and are celebrated as they flourish in the light of love and praise for who they are is like someone finding an oasis in the desert when they don’t think they can make it one more step.

As we watched the final celebration, I realized that, for these young souls, this place was a sanctuary away from the everyday pressures to fit in or hide who they were created to be, a sanctuary where caring adults guided them and helped them discover their potential, a safe place where they could realize they aren’t alone in the world and that their gifts and talents are important.

God created each of those children in a unique and wonderful way by putting the gift of beauty and art into their hearts. Watching them showcase their gifts, I knew we were on holy ground, where God’s creation could in turn create and spread that joy to others.

Watching that boy’s infectious joy for his craft reminded me that the attitude we bring to our work, home, families, and relationships can have a direct effect on those around us. Our attitudes and behaviors can set the tone for how others will respond to us and in turn how they might treat others.

I’m not suggesting we must spend all day, every day, being Pollyanna-like or walking around in a haze of ignorant bliss. I’m suggesting we be mindful of how our attitudes and actions affect those around us. Do you know the saying “You catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar”? The message there is true. Next time you’re at the grocery store, observe those around you and yourself. Notice what happens when you give the cashier a genuine smile or compliment. Take note of how words spoken out of anger are received differently than words that come from a place of respect or compassion.

At times difficult people can make it hard for us to be positive or joyful. When this happens, I must remind myself that I can’t control their actions, attitudes, and reactions, but I can control my own actions, attitudes, and reactions. If I slip into a position of self-defense or anger, I’ve played into the hands of their negative attitude. If I claim their negative attitude as my own, I wallow in the darkness of their despair, at least until I realize their reaction doesn’t have to be my reaction. Only when I let go of any need to control someone else’s thoughts and feelings can I break free from their negative influence.

Attitude can be infectious. Just like the orchestra student’s response to the music affected those around him, how we process our world can have an impact on those around us. When we come from an open position of compassion and love, a position of joy, those with whom we interact are more willing to trust us and reciprocate the respect we show them.

Stephanie Clinton is a writer and blogger but more importantly, a wife and mother to two little boys. In her free time (if there is any) she can be found wiping snotty noses and volunteering in her community and school. Learn more about Stephanie along with her passion to encourage women and lighten their load at www.hugskissesandsnot.com.