PERCEPTION AND ATTITUDECREATES OUR REALITIES!

by Mary Frances Hansen

When you wake up in the morning do you have your alarm clock set on Positive or Negative? Optimism and Pessimism are a mindset on our way of thinking and seeing things. Our minds are like a smorgasbord and we have choices. Optimists will see the positive side of things and believe they have the skills and abilities to make things happen. Whereas Pessimists will see things with negative viewpoints.

The power of the mind can influence a person's health. Our minds possess one of the strongest and most useful powers within us. The way we think, our attitudes, and moods, can impact our everyday lives. Our mind is so powerful! Mind power is the power of our thoughts.

Perception can affect our health and attitude. A couple of synonyms of perception are discernment and insight These two words mean .....a power to see what is not evident to the average mind. Our perception, or how we view ourselves and our health, significantly impact our well-being and can lead ro unhealthy behaviors and increased stress. An Arabian proverb that offers an enlightening perception on health is, “ He who has health, has hope ; and he who has hope, has everything.” To keep the body in good health is our duty ... otherwise we will not be able to keep our minds strong and clear.

Perception gives birth to attitude and our attitudes lay the foundation for our behaviors. Our attitudes on health can either empower us to achieve optimal health or imprison us in a cycle of poor habits and negative outcomes. This is why positive attitudes are so important.

I’ve been following the journey of an amazing young 13 year old boy from Houston named Devarjaye “DJ” Daniels. He inspired me to write this article and I just had to share his story. DJ is only 13 years old, but he has already touched more hearts than most people do in a lifetime. His strength, courage, and positivity have truly inspired me.

In 2017, when Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, DJ and his family were rescued by three police officers. That moment really stuck with him. It made DJ want to become a police officer himself to help others the way those officers helped him and his family. His dream became a huge part of who DJ is. Unfortunately, 2018, DJ was diagnosed with brain and spinal cancer. Doctors gave him just five months to live. He has had 13 brain surgeries. It’s hard to even imagine what he and his family went through, but DJ did not give up. He leaned on his faith, stayed positive, and kept believing — and now seven years later he is still here, still fighting, and still chasing his dream.

With his amazing dad, Theodis, by his side, DJ has been traveling across the country, being sworn in by police departments everywhere. Over 1,300 departments have welcomed him into their families. That just shows how many people believe in him and how much love he spreads wherever he goes. DJ brings so much joy to so many people.

One really special moment happened on March 4, 2025. During a big speech to Congress, President Trump surprised DJ by asking Secret Service Director, Sean Curran, to officially make DJ an honorary Secret Service agent. DJ was shocked — in the best way — and you could see the emotion all over his face. His dad lifted him up while the room cheered and chanted his name. It was such a powerful moment, one........ I’ll never forget watching on TV!

What stands out the most about DJ is not just his strength... but his heart. In an interview, DJ shared a message for other kids going through hard times, especially those battling cancer. He said:

“Have faith and believe in God, listen to your parents, and never give up.”

How beautiful is that? Another thing he said that stuck with me is, “If you’re having a bad day… make it a good day!”

DJ isn’t just brave, he is wise beyond his years. He reminds all of us what it means to keep going, to stay hopeful, and to lead with a positive attitude, and love no matter what. He truly is a legend, and his story has captured my heart. If you’re struggling or going through something tough right now, I hope DJ’s story reminds you.... you’re not alone and better days are still ahead.

One scripture in the Bible that brings me comfort and I think fits DJ’s journey so well ... Isaiah 41:10, “Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God, I will help you, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.” DJ is living proof even in the hardest times, there is still so much beauty, love, and purpose to be found.!

Stay Strong, Stay Safe, and Keep the Faith!!!