Rose Colored Glasses

2025 has been a year filled with anxiety, worry, division, and sadness for many people. We have endured a heightened state of stress through the first blooms of Spring and the long Summer days.  Looking out the window this morning as the first leaves fell from the trees signaling the beginning of what is usually my favorite time of year, I found myself worrying that the global challenges dominating our newsfeeds every day would tarnish the joys of the upcoming holiday season. 

But the rose-colored sunglasses that are framed in a shadow box on the bookshelf in my office remind me that I have the power to change that negative point of view.  The circa 1980 oversized sunglasses belonged to my mother, who was an eternal optimist.  When something wasn’t going right in her world, she would take a deep breath, put on her sunglasses, and say, “That’s ok… I am going to look at the world through these rose-colored glasses.”  Each and every day, she made a conscious and intentional decision to approach the world with a positive attitude and to make the best of each day.

Mom ascribed to this philosophy, no matter how bleak her circumstances.  In 1993, following open-heart surgery, she remained hospitalized with serious complications.  A parade of health care providers and specialists came to her bedside to explain the details of her ailments, the risks associated with various treatment options, and the reality of her grim prognosis.  She finally reached a breaking point and unceremoniously kicked ALL of these experts out of her hospital room.  She told them they were not permitted to come back until they could focus on her healing with a positive attitude.  And, she even asked me to make a sign for her hospital door that read “Only positive attitudes welcome here.”

Don’t be fooled by her positive attitude, though.  She wasn’t in denial.  She really did understand how terribly sick she was.  But she also understood that she needed to focus on the possibility of recovery and the steps she would need to take to get there – no matter how slim the chances.  And, through many months in the hospital, she found ways to celebrate the joy and gift of life each day.  And, she did that proudly, wearing her rose-colored glasses.

In the face of ongoing global trade and tariff negotiations, an uncertain economy, government shutdowns, and the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, I decided it is time for me to find myself a pair of rose-colored glasses.  I hope you will consider finding a pair for yourself, too.  Instead of worrying about the potential challenges ahead, I am going to celebrate the beauty of each falling leaf, cherish the comfort of the dogs snuggled on the blanket at my feet, and enjoy the steaming cup of coffee in my hand.  I am going to look forward to the upcoming holiday celebrations and the additional quality family time with the people I love most.  And, I am going to hold hope in my heart for a healthy and more united future for everyone.

Only positive attitudes welcome here!