chapter 43

Chapter 43: Cultivating Positivity

Amidst the ups and downs, Jelo, Jaja, and Janjan were able to cultivate positivity. They chose to focus on the good, maintaining a positive outlook even in challenging times. Their optimism was infectious, spreading positivity not just among them but to all those around them.

One day, Jelo, Jaja, and Janjan along with their mutual friends Thomas, Sarah, and Mia, decided to get together for a long, leisurely luncheon at their favorite local restaurant.

As they laughed, ate, and shared stories, Sarah questioned, "How do you guys manage to remain so positive even when things go wrong? I mean, we all go through tough situations, but you guys seem to bounce back with much more strength."

Jelo cleared his throat and looked at his friends, "I think it's because we don't let negative situations define us. We try to see the good even in the worst circumstances."

"Yeah," Janjan joined in. "Seeing the proverbial 'glass as half full' is something we consciously strive for. It's not always easy but it makes the tough times much more bearable."

Mia, attentively listening, asked, "Is that why you guys have such a close bond? Because you maintain a positive attitude?"

"I believe so," Jaja responded. "Positivity is contagious. Just as negativity can bring you down, a positive outlook can uplift you. When you are surrounded by positivity, it's easier to deal with life's hurdles."

Thomas, intrigued, asked, "What steps do you guys take to cultivate this positivity?"

Jaja smiled, "Well, one thing that really helps me is expressing gratitude. Acknowledging the good things in life keeps me grounded and happiness comes easier when you're grateful."

Janjan nodded in agreement, "Jaja is absolutely right. Also, spending time in nature helps me maintain a positive perspective. There's so much beauty and peace out there, it's difficult to remain glum."

"My art is my space of positivity," Jelo shared. "When I paint, I focus on the good and beautiful aspects of life, and that helps me maintain my positive outlook."

Sarah, Mia, and Thomas marveled at their words. It was apparent the trio's positivity wasn't a fluke, but the result of conscious thought and deliberate actions.

Over the next few weeks, Jelo, Jaja, and Janjan's positivity influenced their friends. Sarah started to express gratitude daily. Mia started to spend more time outdoors, soaking in nature's beauty. And Thomas, he tried his hand at painting, discovering a creative side he didn't know existed.

True to his words, Thomas registered for an art class nearby, his curious eyes filled with a spark that hadn't been seen before. Sarah had begun to maintain a gratitude journal, jotting down the things she was thankful for each day. Mia, on the other hand, started waking up early, using the extra time to partake in serene morning walks.

They decided to reconvene after a few weeks at the same restaurant. As they settled into their seats, Mia commenced the conversation. "I must say, I never realized how calming nature could be. The morning walks have brought such peace to my usually chaotic mornings."

"That's wonderful, Mia," praised Jelo, a smile tugging at his lips. "For me, my art has always been my peace. And how about you, Thomas? How's the painting class going?"

Thomas grinned as he recounted his experience, his eyes also shining brightly. "Oh, it's been amazing! I could never quite appreciate the quiet focus involved in creating art before."

Sarah nodded, a soft smile playing on her lips. "And this gratitude journaling you suggested, Jaja, has worked wonders. I've begun to appreciate the little things in life more than ever."

Their stories were a testament to their efforts at cultivating positivity. The positive shift was evident not only in their words but also in their personalities. They had all moved toward becoming better versions of themselves, embracing positivity, and allowing it to transform them and their outlook towards life.

In the following days, they continued their pursuits diligently. Thomas started working on a painting of the city skyline, something he had never thought he possessed the talent for. Sarah's gratitude journal overflowed with her expressions of thankfulness. Mia found her morning walks so rejuvenating that she started taking up jogging as well.

The changes in Thomas, Sarah, and Mia were evident to everyone around them. Their friends, family, and even colleagues could see a distinct difference. They seemed happier, more content, and overall, their outlook was much more positive.

A few months later, they all decided to hold an intimate gathering to celebrate their journey of positivity. Jelo showcased a new painting titled "Embrace of Positivity," an abstract piece representing their journey. Thomas unveiled his city skyline painting, which was met with awe and admiration. Mia revealed her plan of signing up for a half marathon, and Sarah read some of her favorite entries from her gratitude journal.

This gathering was beyond a mere celebration; it was a testament to their transformation and the power of positivity. They had faced their struggles, replaced their worries with joy, and negativity with positivity. The air was filled with warmth, laughter, good energy, and above all,